Crowns and Bridges

Let's face it, very few of us have perfect teeth. Many of us have large, ugly metal fillings, which expand and contract with temperature. This causes cracks in the filling and tooth and can lead to tooth decay.

When a tooth has extensive decay, the best way to restore it is with a crown. A crown is a porcelain “cap” that covers and strengthens the tooth.

In the past, dentists had to use silver or gold crowns to strengthen teeth, but today we have highly durable porcelains that can protect your teeth, and look very natural. Many people call them “invisible fillings” or “invisible crowns.”

We know your time is valuable.

In addition to using metal free crowns, we are one of the few offices in Arizona that offer CEREC crowns. With CEREC crowns, you will get your crown in ONE VISIT. NO impression “goop’’ and NO plastic temporaries.

So, how does the CEREC procedure work?

First, Dr. Koppikar examines your tooth and determines the appropriate treatment depending on how much healthy tooth structure is remaining. Next, he prepares the tooth for the porcelain crown. Following that, he will take a 3D image of your tooth. After that, a milling machine makes your crown while you read a magazine or watch your favorite TV show! Click here to watch the CEREC featured on the show - THE DOCTORS. In addition to restoring tooth decay, crowns can also be used to enhance your smile by covering up stained or crooked teeth. Porcelain crowns have become a very important part of cosmetic dentistry.

What is a bridge?

A bridge is usually three or more crowns connected together to replace a missing tooth. If you are missing a tooth, a bridge is one option to replace that tooth. We place two crowns, one on each side of the missing tooth, and connect the two crowns with another crown that fits in the space of your missing tooth. The downside to a bridge is that it is very difficult to floss and because the three crowns are connected, if anything happens to just one crown, we have to replace all three crowns.

A much better option today is to replace your missing tooth with an implant. Click here to learn more about dental implants.