Precision Crowns & Bridges: Restoring Strength and Artistry
Regain the full function of your bite and the natural beauty of your smile with custom-crafted restorations designed for longevity. Using microscopic precision and master-level artistry, Dr. Maria A. Smith ensures every crown and bridge fits seamlessly, feels comfortable, and looks indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
Precision Dental Crowns
A dental crown (often called a "cap") is a custom-made restoration that completely covers a tooth that has been weakened by decay, large fillings, or fractures. At the office of Maria A. Smith DMD, PC, we don't believe a crown should just look like a tooth—it should function like a healthy, natural part of your mouth.
By utilizing advanced porcelain and ceramic materials, Dr. Maria creates crowns that mimic the light-reflecting properties of natural enamel while providing the structural integrity needed for long-term durability.
Emergency Cases
Dental emergencies can happen at any time, and we’re here for you when they do. Whether it's a sudden toothache, broken tooth, or injury, our team is ready to provide immediate care.
Fixed Dental Bridges
If you are missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge is a time-tested and reliable solution to "bridge the gap." A bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) that are held in place by dental crowns on the adjacent natural teeth or implants.
Benefits of a custom bridge include:
- Restored Function: Regain the ability to chew and speak properly.
- Prevented Shifting: Keeping your remaining teeth in their correct alignment.
- Facial Support: Maintaining the natural shape of your face by preventing bone loss and muscle sag.
The Power of Precision: Our Restorative Process
Dr. Maria’s approach to crowns and bridges is grounded in clinical excellence and the use of high-magnification technology.
1. Microscopic Margin Design
Using a clinical microscope, Dr. Maria ensures that the transition between your natural tooth and the new crown is perfectly smooth. This "marginal fit" is critical; a precise seal prevents bacteria from leaking under the crown, which is the leading cause of crown failure.
2. Advanced Occlusal Planning
Because of her specialized Pankey training, Dr. Maria analyzes how your upper and lower teeth meet. This ensures your new crown or bridge doesn't just look good but is balanced within your bite to prevent jaw pain or premature wear.
3. High-End Local Laboratories
We partner with premier dental laboratories in Connecticut. By choosing local, master technicians rather than mass-produced overseas labs, we ensure your restoration is hand-crafted with the finest materials and an artist's attention to detail.
How long does it take to get a crown or bridge?
The process typically requires two visits. During the first, we prepare the tooth and take a high-precision impression. At the second visit, usually two weeks later, we permanently bond your custom-crafted restoration.
What is the difference between a crown and a bridge?
A crown is used to save and strengthen a single damaged tooth. A bridge is used to replace one or more completely missing teeth by anchored to the teeth on either side of the gap.
Does a crown look like a "fake" tooth?
Not in our office. By using metal-free porcelains and custom shade-matching, Dr. Maria ensures your crown matches the translucency, color, and shape of your natural teeth perfectly.
Why Choose Dr. Maria A. Smith for Your Crowns & Bridges?
Restoring a tooth requires more than just mechanical skill—it requires an understanding of the complex "Art and Science" of the human bite. Dr. Maria A. Smith is a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD), a credential held by fewer than 2% of dentists nationwide.
For your crowns and bridges, this expertise means:
- 30 Years of Clinical Success: Three decades of experience in Shelton providing restorations that are built to last a lifetime.
- Pankey-Trained Precision: Advanced knowledge in "Occlusion" (bite mechanics), ensuring your bridge or crown feels comfortable and natural from day one.
- Relationship-Based Care: We take the time to understand your goals, ensuring your restoration complements your unique facial aesthetics and lifestyle.
Ready for a durable, beautiful smile?
Contact our Shelton office today at 203-924-1613 or email info@drmasmith.com to schedule your restorative consultation.