Crowns & Bridges in Sarasota
A crown covers and strengthens a damaged tooth. A bridge fills the space left by a missing one. Both are custom made to match your smile and restore a comfortable bite.
What It Is
A crown is a custom cap that fits over the whole visible part of a tooth. It is used when a tooth is cracked, heavily filled, worn down or has had a root canal. Our crowns are made of porcelain ceramic, shaped and shaded to look like a natural tooth.
A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth in a row. Artificial teeth fill the gap and are held in place by crowns on the teeth next to it. A bridge can be built on a metal or a non-metal base. When several teeth are missing, dental implants may be used to anchor it.
Both are made by a dental lab from impressions of your teeth. You wear a temporary while yours is being made, then return to have the final one fitted and cemented. Your dentist checks the color, the fit and your bite before it is fixed in place.
Who It Is For
- A tooth is cracked, broken or badly worn.
- A filling is too large for the tooth that is left.
- A tooth has had root canal treatment.
- You are missing one or more teeth in a row.
- A tooth is misshapen or deeply discolored.
- You want a fixed option that is not removable.
Benefits
- Protects weak teeth. A crown holds a damaged tooth together and helps shield it from further breaks.
- Fills the gap. A bridge replaces missing teeth and helps keep neighboring teeth from drifting.
- Natural appearance. Porcelain is matched to the color and shape of your own teeth.
- Comfortable chewing. Restoring the full shape of a tooth helps spread biting forces evenly.
- Fixed in place. Crowns and bridges are cemented, so you care for them much like natural teeth.
How It Works
What to expect, step by step.
- Consultation. We examine the tooth or space, take X-rays and review your options and costs.
- Preparation. The area is numbed, and the tooth or supporting teeth are shaped to make room for the restoration.
- Impressions and temporary. We take impressions for the dental lab and place a temporary to protect your teeth.
- Final fitting. At a second visit we check the fit, color and bite, then cement your crown or bridge.
Cost and Insurance
Cost depends on how many teeth are involved, the material used, and whether other care is needed first, such as a build-up, a root canal or implants to support a bridge. You will receive a written estimate before we begin.
We file claims with all PPO insurance and are in network with Delta Dental Premier. Many plans cover a portion of crowns and bridges. Financing is available through CareCredit, Cherry, Wisetack and Proceed Finance. If you were told you need a crown or bridge elsewhere, we offer free second opinions.
Real Patients, Real Stories
For my first interaction with the staff at Simply Smiles on the phone to my first visit. Everyone was kind, made me feel comfortable and patient with me. I haven't had the best experiences at dentist but Dr. Szef was amazing at easing my fears and concerns. She took the time to educate me about my care needs and showed completely and that's why I would recommend them to anyone. The whole staff is top Tier.
I was a first time patient, and if I could give Simply Smiles more than 5 stars, I would. I will definitely be back 😊 The staff was all amazing!! They were very informative and very thorough. I absolutely LOVED Hannah as my hygienist as well. Her bubbly personality made my day joyful and she makes you feel very comfortable through the entire process. Keep her! I’ve went to other practices to know she really goes above and beyond. Dr. Sandra Scef was very sweet and really cared for me as well, and at the end of the day, that’s what matters and stands out.
We had a dental emergency when my daughter's spacer broke, and Simply Smiles was fantastic. They got us in the same day , and the team was so kind and efficient with my 7-year-old. Chelcie and the staff explained everything clearly and fixed it perfectly with zero drama. Made a stressful situation so much easier—highly recommend them for anyone needing fast, caring Dental care in Sarasota/ Bradenton area!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many visits does a crown or bridge take?
Usually two. The first visit is for preparation, impressions and a temporary. The second is for fitting and cementing the final restoration once the lab has made it.
Does getting a crown hurt?
The tooth and surrounding area are numbed before we start. Some tenderness or sensitivity afterward is normal and tends to fade within a few days.
What are your crowns made of?
Our crowns are made of porcelain ceramic, chosen for its strength and natural look. Your dentist will explain what is best suited to the tooth being treated.
How long do crowns and bridges last?
That depends on your bite, your habits and your home care. Brushing, cleaning under a bridge daily and keeping regular checkups all help them last.
Should I choose a bridge or an implant?
Both replace missing teeth. A bridge relies on the neighboring teeth, while an implant stands on its own in the jaw. We will go over the pros and cons for your situation, and implant consultations are free.
How do I care for a temporary crown?
Chew on the other side when you can and avoid sticky or hard foods. Call us if it comes loose so we can put it back.
Can I get a second opinion?
Yes. Second opinions are free at Simply Smiles. Bring any recent X-rays if you have them.
