Understanding Crowns and Bridges in Coral Springs, FL

New Life Dental – Dr. Francisco Vasallo | Call us today at (305) 509-6337

A healthy smile isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling confident, chewing comfortably, and preserving your oral health for years to come.

At New Life Dental, we understand that dental procedures can feel overwhelming at first, especially when terms like crowns and bridges come into play. That’s why we’re here to explain everything in a simple, friendly way—so you can make informed choices without stress or confusion.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a protective “cap” that is placed over a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth. Think of it as a helmet for your tooth—it restores the tooth’s shape, size, and strength while improving its appearance.

Crowns are custom-made to match the natural color of your teeth and are often used when a filling isn’t enough to repair a tooth. Whether due to a large cavity, a cracked tooth, or following a root canal, crowns help preserve and protect what’s left of your natural tooth structure.

Common reasons for getting a crown:

Large cavities or tooth fractures
Worn down or misshapen teeth
After root canal treatment
Cosmetic improvements for discolored or damaged teeth
To support a dental bridge or cover a dental implant

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It’s called a “bridge” because it quite literally bridges the gap left by missing teeth. A bridge is anchored by crowns placed on the neighboring healthy teeth—or dental implants if needed—with a false tooth (called a pontic) suspended between them.

Bridges not only restore the look of your smile, but they also help maintain proper bite alignment, prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, and improve chewing and speech.

Situations where a bridge may be needed:

One or more missing teeth in a row
To restore function and chewing ability
To keep surrounding teeth from drifting out of position
To preserve facial shape and prevent jawbone deterioration

Crowns vs. Bridges: What’s the Difference?

While both crowns and bridges play a role in restoring dental function and aesthetics, they serve different purposes.

Feature	Crowns	Bridges
Purpose	Restore a damaged or weakened tooth	Replace one or more missing teeth
Placement	Over an existing tooth or dental implant	Anchored by crowns on adjacent teeth
Materials	Porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, metal, or a combination	Typically porcelain fused to metal or all-ceramic
Longevity	10–15 years or more with proper care	Similar lifespan, depending on oral hygiene and placement

Both restorations are designed to be long-lasting and natural-looking, blending seamlessly into your smile.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Many patients are pleasantly surprised by how smooth the process is. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect:

For Crowns:

Dr. Francisco Vasallo will examine the tooth and take X-rays if necessary.
The tooth is reshaped to make room for the crown.
A digital or traditional impression is taken and sent to the lab.
A temporary crown may be placed while your permanent one is being made.
On your next visit, the final crown is bonded securely in place.

For Bridges:

The adjacent teeth (called abutments) are prepared for crowns.
Impressions are taken to design the custom bridge.
A temporary bridge is placed.
Once ready, your permanent bridge is placed and adjusted for comfort and bite.

The entire process is done with your comfort in mind. We use modern tools and techniques to ensure minimal discomfort and maximum precision.

Are Crowns and Bridges Painful?

Not at all. Most patients describe the experience as similar to getting a filling. Local anesthetic is used to numb the area, and you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Afterward, there might be some mild sensitivity as your mouth adjusts, but this usually goes away quickly.

At New Life Dental, your comfort is our priority. Dr. Vasallo and our friendly team are here to guide you through every step with compassion and care.

How to Take Care of Your Crowns and Bridges

Good oral hygiene is essential to keeping your crowns and bridges in excellent shape. Here are some tips:

Brush twice a day and floss daily (especially under the bridge)
Use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
Visit our office for regular cleanings and exams
Avoid chewing on hard objects (like ice or pens)
Consider using a nightguard if you grind your teeth

With proper care, your restorations can last many years while keeping your smile healthy and functional.

Why Choose New Life Dental for Your Restoration?

At New Life Dental, we believe in honest communication, gentle care, and exceptional results. Dr. Francisco Vasallo brings expertise and a genuine passion for helping patients feel confident in their treatment decisions.

From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll be treated like family. Whether you need a crown, bridge, or another dental service, we’re here to help you restore your smile—and your peace of mind.

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

If you’re dealing with damaged or missing teeth, don’t wait to take the next step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Crowns and bridges can dramatically improve your quality of life—and we’re here to make the process easy and stress-free.

Call us today at (305) 509-6337 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Francisco Vasallo at New Life Dental. We’ll help you explore the best options for your unique smile.