Crowns & Bridges in Great Falls to Rejuvenate Your Smile

smiling senior coupleIf you have damaged, decayed, or missing teeth, a dental crown or bridge may be just what you’ve been looking for. These custom restorations can revitalize the appearance and functionality of your smile. Dr. Sheldon Ivers and Dr. Michelle Nieset place restorations with gentle precision to sculpt the healthy smile you’ve always dreamed of.

The practice of Sheldon Ivers, DDS, has served Great Falls and the surrounding areas of North Central Montana and Cascade County since 1969. We strive to consistently tailor our high-quality services to your unique dental needs. Contact us at our Great Falls practice today to schedule your appointment. We can’t wait to meet you!

CALL US: (406) 727-2444 REQUEST APPOINTMENT

What Are Crowns & Bridges?

Crowns and bridges are dental restorations that serve to enhance your smile’s aesthetics and improve your oral health. A crown, or dental cap, completely covers a tooth down to the gumline. A crown can restore a tooth that is damaged, substantially decayed, or recovering from root canal therapy. Your crown protects the tooth from further damage and restores it to its original size and shape. Crowns are commonly made of metal, porcelain, or porcelain-fused-to-metal. If you properly take care of your crown, it can last you for many years.

A dental bridge uses a combination of replacement teeth (pontics) and crowns to fill substantial gaps in your smile. When possible, your dental bridge uses healthy teeth as its structural support. Your natural teeth act as anchors for your bridge, which fits neatly into the open space to restore your full smile. If your teeth cannot support a dental bridge, a set of dental implants can stabilize your replacement teeth.

Why Would I Need a Crown?

illustration of dental crownDental crowns are incredibly versatile and can correct various dental problems. You may want a dental crown if:

  • You have a large cavity: Sometimes, a cavity is too large to repair with a standard filling. In this case, a crown will efficiently protect your tooth and prevent recurring infections.
  • One of your teeth is worn down: Perhaps you grind your teeth at night, or a tooth has become worn down due to an uneven bite. A dental crown can restore your tooth’s structure and protect it from further damage.
  • A tooth is cracked or broken: A dental crown may be sufficient to make a damaged tooth stronger and prevent infection or further damage.
  • You are seeking a cosmetic treatment: If you have a misshapen, chipped, or otherwise damaged tooth, a porcelain crown can restore its appearance and blend naturally with your healthy teeth.
  • You are missing a tooth. A particular type of crown, known as an implant crown, attaches directly to a dental implant to provide you with a high-quality replacement tooth.

Benefits of a Dental Bridge

A dental bridge’s primary purpose is to efficiently replace multiple missing teeth with natural-looking restorations. In addition to improving your smile cosmetically by filling gaps, your bridge will also prevent your remaining healthy teeth from shifting. Your bridge is carefully designed to fit into your smile. By repairing the gaps, you simultaneously improve your oral health and appearance.

Our Efficient Process for Crafting Your Restorations

close up of ceramic dental crownWe typically request that you make two appointments to receive a crown or bridge. Our dentist uses a 3Shape® TRIOS intraoral scanner to map your teeth in great detail at your first appointment. We then use a 3D printer to create an impression for a dental lab to use. By getting a precise idea of the size, shape, and ideal location for your restorations, we ensure that we are thoroughly prepared to order and place your crown or bridge.

We work with an outstanding dental lab to create your custom restoration. Your new crown or bridge is typically ready in ten to fourteen days. We provide you with a temporary crown while waiting for your permanent restoration to be created. While not customized to provide a perfect fit, your temporary prosthetic will protect your tooth and allow you to eat and speak comfortably.

When your restoration is ready you'll return for your second appointment and we carefully place it and make sure it is secure.

How Long Will My Restoration Last?

By maintaining excellent oral hygiene and seeing our dentist for regularly-scheduled checkups, your crown or bridge can last for a decade or longer. Every situation is different, and many factors influence the lifespan of a restoration. The most important thing you can do is brush, floss, and visit our practice regularly. We can help you keep your bridge or crown clean and prevent damage from gum disease and tooth decay.

Protecting & Enhancing Your Smile With Crowns & Bridges

Whether you need to replace a tooth that has been damaged, or you want to fill unwanted gaps in your smile, our experienced team at the practice of Sheldon Ivers, DDS, is here to help! Dr. Ivers and Dr. Nieset are excited to work with you to help craft your dream smile and keep you healthy. Call our Great Falls office today to see if a crown or bridge is right for you!

CALL US: (406) 727-2444 REQUEST APPOINTMENT


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