Dental Crowns and Bridges in Long Valley, NJ

Transform Damaged and Missing Teeth With Dr. Rogler

If you have a damaged, decayed, or missing tooth, dental crowns and bridges offer an excellent restorative solution. At Rogler Family Dentistry in Long Valley, NJ, Dr. Ralph Rogler has over 25 years of experience providing beautiful, functional dental crowns and bridges using the latest dental technology and techniques. 

Schedule your dental bridges and crowns consultation at Rogler Family Dentistry by calling (908) 850-0506 today!

What Are Dental Crowns and Bridges?

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped “caps” placed over a tooth to restore its size, shape, and strength. Reasons you may need a crown include:

• Protecting a weak tooth due to decay, fracture, or root canal treatment

• Restoring a broken or severely worn-down tooth

• Covering a dental implant or bridge

• Improving the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth

Crowns are made to precisely match the size, shape, and color of your surrounding teeth. Popular materials include strong porcelain fused with metal, all-ceramic, or gold alloy.

With good oral health care, crowns can last over a decade before needing replacement.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges fill a space where one or more teeth are missing. They’re false teeth supported by custom crowns that attach to natural teeth on either side of the gap. Reasons you may need a bridge include:

• Replacing one or more missing teeth to restore your smile

• Eliminating a space that allows your other teeth to shift

• Restoring your ability to properly bite, chew, and speak

Dental bridges are an alternative to removable dentures or partials. They provide a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth with a natural look and comfortable fit.

When Are Bridges and Crowns Necessary?

A dental bridge or crown can help patients with the following:

• Severe Tooth Decay: Extensive decay undermines the strength of the remaining tooth structure. These dental restorations cover and protect what’s left.

• Root Canal Therapy: A root canal removes nerve tissue from an infected tooth pulp. A crown is recommended afterward because the tooth may be more brittle.

• Replacing Missing Teeth: Dental bridges fill the gaps left by a missing tooth, providing a harmonious smile.

• Tooth Fractures: Cracks or fractures in the tooth enamel often require a crown to hold the fragments together and prevent further damage.

• Worn-Down Teeth: Teeth can wear down from clenching, grinding, or acid erosion. Thin, weakened teeth benefit from protective crowns.

• Discolored Teeth: Teeth stained from medication use or childhood fluoride treatments can be covered with stained-matched porcelain crowns.

• Cosmetic Dentistry Imperfections: Misshapen, unevenly spaced, or discolored teeth can be transformed with durable, natural-looking porcelain restorations.

• Dental Implants: A permanent crown or dental bridge can be supported by dental implants. 

The Cosmetic Benefits of Getting A Dental Bridge and Dental Crown

In addition to restoring damaged or missing teeth, these restorations offer cosmetic dentistry enhancement. Benefits include:

• Whiter, Brighter Smile: Stained, discolored teeth can be covered with bright white porcelain crowns and bridges.

• Straighter Smile: Crowns lengthen and reshape teeth that are uneven, crooked, or have gaps.

• Youthful Smile: Thin, worn-down teeth are rebuilt to full size and shape with strong crowns.

• Confident Smile: With crowns and bridges, patients feel renewed confidence in their smiles.

While these restorations serve essential oral health needs, patients are increasingly seeking cosmetic dentistry benefits. Dr. Rogler combines technical precision with artistic skill for stunning smile makeovers.

The Dental Bridge and Crown Process at Rogler Family Dental

Dr. Rogler and his team use advanced technology and meticulous techniques to provide beautiful, natural-looking restorations.

Exam and Evaluation

Our Long Valley dentist will examine your tooth or gap and take dental X-rays to fully evaluate your needs. He’ll discuss treatment options and make recommendations. 

A dental hygienist may also take digital impressions of your natural teeth to guide your custom dental bridge or crown.

Tooth Preparation 

Dr. Rogler will prepare the natural teeth by safely removing a small amount of enamel to accommodate the crown or dental bridge. A local anesthetic or dental sedation can ensure your comfort during this process. 

If your restoration is being used to complete dental implants, you’ll undergo the dental implant process at this time. 

Custom Crown Fabrication

At this time, we’ll place a temporary restoration while your permanent dental bridge or crown is made in a dental lab. State-of-the-art technology will create a precision restoration using your unique bite and existing teeth shade.

Fitting and Bonding

At your next visit, Dr. Rogler will fit your permanent dental bridge or crown and make any adjustments for optimal oral health and aesthetics. It’s then bonded in place for a secure, natural fit.

Caring for Your New Dental Crown or Bridge

To ensure your restoration lasts, be diligent about caring for your new crown or bridge. Dr. Rogler offers these tips to care for your crown or bridge:

• Proper Brushing: Gently brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Avoid abrasive whitening toothpastes, as these can damage your restoration.

• Flossing: Floss at least once daily, taking care to floss underneath the crown or bridge. Special flossing tools can aid access and remove food debris.

• Rinsing: Use an antiseptic mouth rinse daily to reduce bacteria around restorations.

• Regular Cleanings: Visit our Long Valley dental office at least every six months to remove plaque and tartar from crown edges.

• Avoid Chewing Hard Foods: Avoid sticky, crunchy, or hard foods that can damage dental work. Avoid ice, nuts, and hard candy.

• Don’t Grind Your Teeth: Use a nightguard if you clench or grind your teeth to prevent excessive wear.

• See Dr. Rogler at The First Sign of Trouble: Dr. Rogler can secure loose crowns or bridges to prevent further damage.

With diligent oral care and regular dental visits, your restorations can last for many years or even decades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does getting a crown or bridge hurt?

The procedure involves some removal of enamel, so your tooth may feel sensitivity during preparation. Your dentist can administer a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable and prescribe medication to control post-procedure pain.

What’s the cost of a crown or bridge?

The cost depends on the type of material used and number of units needed. With dental insurance, your out-of-pocket expense can generally be anywhere from $800 to $2200. Payment plans and financing options are available.

How do I take care of my crown or bridge?

Be diligent about proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. Avoid chewing hard items like ice or popcorn kernels. See your dentist immediately if you notice any looseness, damage, or decay.

Are there alternatives to a bridge for a missing tooth?

Yes! Removable partial dentures and dental implants are also options your dentist may discuss if a bridge would not work well for your situation.

Restore Your Stunning Smile at Rogler Family Dentistry

Don’t live with damaged, decayed, or missing teeth. Crowns and bridges offer natural-looking, permanent solutions to restore your smile and dental function.