Restore Damaged and Missing Teeth With Crowns and Bridges
A chipped, cracked, or missing tooth doesn't just affect how your smile looks — it can impact how you eat, speak, and feel about yourself every day. At John Chung Family Dentistry in Newport News, VA, we provide custom dental crowns and bridges to help you regain a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile. Our team is committed to making every visit efficient, comfortable, and free of judgment. Call us at (757) 833-7217 (Newport News) or (804) 693-9055 (Hayes) to schedule your restorative consultation today.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged, weakened, or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns fully encase the visible portion of the tooth above the gumline, providing both protection and aesthetic improvement. They are one of the most versatile restorative treatments in dentistry.
When Is a Crown Recommended?
Crowns are commonly recommended in situations where a tooth has experienced significant damage but the root remains healthy and intact. Common reasons for placing a crown include:
A tooth with a large cavity that cannot be adequately restored with a filling
A cracked or fractured tooth that is at risk of further damage
A tooth that has undergone root canal therapy and needs protection
A severely worn tooth due to grinding or erosion
Covering a misshapen or discolored tooth for cosmetic improvement
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth by literally "bridging" the gap between two remaining teeth. The teeth on either side of the gap — called abutment teeth — are fitted with crowns, and an artificial tooth (or pontic) is suspended between them. Bridges are a reliable, non-surgical option for replacing missing teeth and restoring bite function.
Restoring Missing Teeth With Bridges
When a tooth is lost due to injury, decay, or extraction, the surrounding teeth can begin to shift toward the gap over time. This can lead to bite problems, jaw discomfort, and changes in facial structure. A dental bridge prevents these complications by filling the space with a natural-looking prosthetic tooth anchored firmly in place. For eligible patients in Newport News, VA, bridges offer a time-tested and cost-effective restoration solution.
Crown and Bridge Materials
At John Chung Family Dentistry, we discuss all available material options with our patients so they can make an informed decision that suits both their functional needs and aesthetic goals. Common materials include:
- Porcelain or ceramic: Highly natural-looking and ideal for front teeth
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): Combines the strength of metal with the appearance of porcelain
- Zirconia: Extremely durable and resistant to chipping — ideal for back teeth under heavy chewing pressure
- Gold or metal alloys: Long-lasting and exceptionally strong, typically used on back molars
What to Expect During Treatment
The crown and bridge process typically requires two appointments. During the first visit, the affected tooth or teeth are prepared, impressions are taken, and a temporary restoration is placed. At the second appointment, your custom permanent crown or bridge is fitted, adjusted for comfort, and cemented into place. Our team at John Chung Family Dentistry is dedicated to ensuring each step of the process is clearly explained and comfortably executed.
We believe your oral health and your smile matter. Whether you're dealing with a single damaged tooth or a gap from a missing one, our Newport News and Hayes dental team is here to help you find the right solution.
Have a damaged or missing tooth? Call John Chung Family Dentistry at (757) 833-7217 (Newport News) or (804) 693-9055 (Hayes) to explore your crown and bridge options.