Chewing food takes good strong teeth. If you have a good, strong tooth and it has a smaller cavity, we will just place a filling in it. This is the procedure of choice because it saves the tooth intact. But with bigger cavities or further breakage, we will create a crown to help strengthen any tooth that cannot stand on its own.
Crowns are like a thimble over your finger. We create one by taking out any decay from the tooth itself. Then we smooth the broken areas and cover them with the crown. We can strengthen the crown when necessary with bonding or pins to make sure it is sturdy and delivers optimum chewing power.
A bridge attaches two crowns together in order to replace missing teeth. We crown the tooth in front and the tooth in the back. Then we attach a false tooth to these two crowns, creating what is called the “bridge.” Although we typically prefer to do dental implants for missing teeth, there are several instances where a bridge is the procedure of choice. We will sit with you and discuss your possible options, and we will always let you determine the procedure you are most comfortable with in the long run.
Crowns and bridges are very esthetic and lifelike. Usually, no one will ever be able to tell that we even worked on it. And they are very long-lasting, as well.
Dental Crowns and Bridges FAQs
What is the purpose of a dental crown?
A dental crown is used to protect and reinforce a tooth that has been weakened by decay, damage, or previous dental work. It fits over the entire visible portion of the tooth, helping restore its strength and shape. At Eastland Dental Center in Bloomington, IL, crowns are often recommended when a tooth can no longer be reliably supported with a filling alone or when structural stability is compromised.
When is a dental bridge recommended?
A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring to neighboring teeth. It helps fill gaps in your smile while restoring function for chewing and speaking. At Eastland Dental Center in Bloomington, IL, bridges are considered when implants are not the preferred option or when surrounding teeth can support a fixed restoration effectively.
How do crowns differ from fillings?
Fillings are typically used for smaller areas of damage, while crowns are designed for teeth that need more comprehensive support. When a tooth has extensive decay or structural compromise, a crown provides full coverage. At Eastland Dental Center in Bloomington, IL, your dentist will recommend the appropriate solution based on how much of the tooth needs to be restored and protected.
What is the process for getting a dental crown?
Receiving a crown involves preparing the tooth by removing damaged areas and shaping it to fit the restoration. An impression is then taken so the crown can be custom-made. At Eastland Dental Center in Bloomington, IL, the final crown is designed to fit comfortably, align properly with your bite, and function naturally once it is placed.
How does a dental bridge stay in place?
A dental bridge is secured by attaching it to the teeth on either side of the gap. These supporting teeth are fitted with crowns that hold the artificial tooth in position. At Eastland Dental Center in Bloomington, IL, this design allows the bridge to remain stable while restoring both the appearance and function of your smile for everyday use.
Do crowns and bridges look natural?
Modern crowns and bridges are crafted from materials that closely resemble natural tooth structure. They are designed to match the color and shape of your surrounding teeth. At Eastland Dental Center in Bloomington, IL, careful attention is given to aesthetics so your restoration blends seamlessly with your smile and appears natural in both look and feel.
How long can crowns and bridges last?
With proper care, crowns and bridges can provide long-lasting results. Their durability depends on factors such as oral hygiene and daily habits. At Eastland Dental Center in Bloomington, IL, patients are guided on how to care for their restorations so they continue to function well and maintain their appearance for many years with routine maintenance.
Drs. Mike and Marisa Milligan at Eastland Dental Center have been creating high-quality crowns and bridges for their patients for over 25 years. By using some of the finest dental labs available, Dr. Mike, Dr. Marisa, and the staff ensure that your crowns and bridges are of the highest quality. This will result in an effective, long-term restoration that will continue to please and satisfy you for years to come!
Eastland Dental Center
Eastland Dental Center is owned and operated by the father-daughter duo, Dr. Mike Milligan and Dr. Marisa Milligan.
Dr. Mike completed his doctor of dental medicine degree from Southern Illinois University in 1978. Dr. Marisa completed her doctor of dental medicine degree from Midwestern University in 2015. Both doctors have logged hundreds of hours of continuing education to stay on top of the latest technologies in dentistry as well as the most current research on the oral-systemic, mouth-body connection to benefit their patients. Dr. Mike and Dr. Marisa are active members and in excellent standing with the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Association, Chicago Dental Society, McLean County Dental Association, American Academy of Oral Systemic Health, and numerous other societies.
Both doctors are avid golfers and have won several national golf tournaments over the years. They are the only father-daughter team in the state to have won the Illinois State Amateur Golf Championship. Dr. Mike in 1974 and Dr. Marisa in 2005.
