Serge Kupetz, DDS

Dental crowns, sometimes called dental caps, are small porcelain or zirconia caps that cover damaged, misshapen, or discolored teeth. In our office we are using only zirconia   as it  offers superior strength and durability for dental crowns. It is at least three times stronger than porcelain or PFM restorations. Unlike porcelain, zirconia can withstand wear and tear without chipping, which is why zirconia restorations tolerate extreme chewing and bruxism.

Often used in conjunction with crowns, dental bridges are artificial teeth that fill the gap between missing teeth.

Bridges correct a variety of dental and oral problems associated with missing teeth, like:

• The inability to chew properly
• Trouble with speech and pronunciation
• The shifting of your remaining teeth
• Bad bites

Bridges also help maintain the shape of your face.

Bridges can be fixed or removable, and Smile of the Woodlands may adhere them to dental implants, existing teeth, crowns, or a combination of these. 

Smile of the Woodlands offers three types of bridges:

Traditional bridges

Traditional bridges can attach to surrounding crowns or to dental implants. To hold them in place, Dr. Kupetz bonds them with a special dental cement.

Cantilever bridges

Cantilever bridges bond to a crown on one side of the prosthetic tooth. 

Maryland bonded bridges

Maryland bonded bridges feature a porcelain or metal framework bonded to the back of supporting teeth. The framework provides stabilization.

Crowns and bridges are typically available in a variety of materials, including zirconia, porcelain, gold, and porcelain fused to metal.
At Smile of the Woodlands, Dr. Kupetz most often recommends the use of zirconia crowns and bridges. Zirconia offers superior strength and durability for dental crowns. It is at least three times stronger than porcelain or PFM restorations. Unlike porcelain, zirconia can withstand wear and tear without chipping, which is why zirconia restorations tolerate extreme chewing and bruxism.
For back teeth that face more heavy biting and chewing, gold or zirconia fused to metal crowns and bridges may serve you better.
If your smile has been compromised by discolored, broken, weak, vulnerable, or otherwise damaged teeth, take action. To learn if crowns and bridges are right for you, reach out to Smile of the Woodlands online or over the phone today.