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Next to cavity fillings and teeth cleanings, crown and bridge placing is one of the most common procedures performed in a general dentist office. For residents of La Crosse County, Wisconsin, Dr. Mike Olsen of the Dental Clinic of Onalaska will help you determine if installing a crown or  bridge is the right procedure for you. 

Here’s a brief overview of the differences between crowns and bridges—and how they can help improve your oral health:

  • What Are Crowns? Crowns, often called "caps," are used to cover the top of a weak, damaged, or misshapen tooth. Many dentists will use a crown to cover a dental implant. Crowns strengthen teeth, can replace large fillings, and drastically improve the appearance of your smile.

Dentist- Onalaska, WI

  • What Are Bridges? Bridges have a similar dual function of improving the structural integrity and aesthetic value of your smile. They can be created from many different materials, including gold alloys and ceramic. Your dentist fills in the gap of your missing tooth or teeth with the bridge, cementing it to the sides of your remaining teeth. 
  • How Are Crowns & Bridges Used? Often, bridges and crowns work together. If a missing tooth is near damaged or broken teeth, a dentist will need to install a crown first to strengthen the area before cementing in a bridge. The process can become complicated if multiple teeth are missing near cracked or damaged teeth, but dental implants with attached crowns can be used in combination with bridges as well. Since the process is so nuanced, the Dental Clinic of Onalaska team likes to think of bridge and crown work as an art as well as a science.

If you have a missing tooth or teeth, you should meet with your dentist to determine if crowns, bridges, dental implants, or some combination of these procedures is the right solution for you. To consult with Dr. Olsen of the Dental Clinic of Onalaska, call (608) 783-3341. You can also visit their website for more information about the dentist and his skilled staff.

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