Treatments

Crowns And Bridges

At Merrillville Dental Center, both crowns and bridges are great options for restoring teeth that have been damaged or are otherwise problematic. They restore both form and function, allowing patients to chew and speak like normal again.

Besides providing restoration for damaged teeth, crowns and bridges can also be cosmetically beneficial. They can improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth and give patients more confidence in their smiles.

Dental Crowns

A crown is a tooth-shaped cap covering a tooth’s entire visible portion. This restoration is used to repair teeth with extensive damage, such as cracks or breakage from severe decay or trauma. They are also used after root canal therapy and for cosmetic purposes. Dental crowns can be made from various materials, including ceramic, gold alloys, porcelain fused to metal, and resin-based composite.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

A dental crown may be suggested when a tooth has sustained damage that may compromise the tooth’s function or when the tooth is misshapen or discolored. Many patients choose to get crowns for cosmetic reasons as well. For example, a crown can conceal a dark spot on a tooth that can’t be whitened with professional treatment. Crowns are also frequently selected following root canal therapy to help protect the tooth from further damage or breakage.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth. They are made up of one or more false teeth, known as “pontics” or “artificial teeth.” These artificial teeth are then held in place by crowns placed over the adjacent healthy teeth. To place a bridge, we first prepare the teeth on either side of the gap by removing a portion of the enamel and dentin. This prepares the teeth for crown placement later. Next, we take impressions of the teeth to send to a dental lab where the bridge will be fabricated. To protect the prepared teeth and maintain the space until the permanent restoration is placed, we place a temporary restoration over the area. When the dental lab completes your bridge, you’ll return to our office to have it fitted and placed in your mouth. Finally, we will adjust to ensure a proper fit and comfortable bite.

Advantages of a Dental Bridges

The bridge restores the natural contour of the gums and mouth, keeps other teeth from shifting out of place, and prevents food and bacteria from collecting in the space left by a missing tooth. It can also restore a patient’s confidence by restoring the appearance of their smile.

Both crowns and bridges help to restore function and appearance to the tooth or teeth.

Reviews

Every smile is unique.

Adam King

01:35 04 Mar 23

My wife had told me that this place was an amazing dental office. Went into today with a knocked out tooth. Found out she was right. The whole experience was very pleasant. Everyone involved was amazing! Was treated with respect, professionalism, and genuine empathy for my situation. This will be me and my families " forever" dentist!. Thank you Merriville dental center!!

Jim Johnson

20:02 15 Feb 23

I had my 1 dental implant tooth installed on the implant stud today. I was not sure what to expect, since this was the first time to get an implant.Procedure went great! Implant tooth fit great and feels perfect. So far, I am very satisfied with how everything went and looking forward to getting second implant later this year.I would highly recommend Merrillville Dental Center for dental implants, as well as, any other dental procedure. All staff are great!Sincerely,Jim Johnson

Lauren Nagel

18:52 06 Jan 23

Go here. The best dental experience I’ve had in my adult life. Everyone is so nice and informative. No pressure to get procedures or buy things. I had my first cavity and was scared… the dentist and the hygienist made it so easy and a less scary experience for me

Yvette Loza

19:22 27 Oct 22

I am the type of person who has very high anxiety when it comes to the dentist. The staff at Merrillville Dental Center were so awesome. Very professional and caring, they also use top of the line equipment. Dr. Patel is great aMF explains procedures so thoroughly that it puts you at ease. My previous dentist office did none of that. I highly recommend Merrillville Dental Center for anyone but especially if you have high anxiety when it comes to dental care.

Carter Vusak

01:06 01 Sep 22

Phenomenal care team. Paige was fantastic and explained everything regarding my dental health in exceptional detail. She was extremely thorough and I left feeling confident I had received the best care possible. Anyone looking for a top notch dental office, Merrillville Dental Center is the place to go.