*Cleaning in the absence of gum disease. Exclusions apply. Cannot be combined with insurance or other offers.
*Cleaning in the absence of gum disease. Exclusions apply. Cannot be combined with insurance or other offers.
A cracked tooth that keeps you up at night, a gap where a tooth used to be, or a smile you’ve been hiding for years aren’t small problems. They get worse with time, as bone deteriorates, neighboring teeth drift, and what started as a single problem compounds into several. Crowns and bridges help stop that progression and restore what the tooth was doing before it was damaged or gone.
Dr. Nieves and Dr. Paranthaman place crowns and bridges at Marina Pointe Dental as part of a restorative dentistry approach built around function first. The materials are tooth-colored, the fit is precise, and the goal is a restoration that holds up for years.
A dental crown is a custom-crafted restoration that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth, protecting it from further harm while restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. Think of it as a sturdy, form-fitting cover that holds everything together. Crowns are recommended when a tooth has a large filling with little natural structure remaining, is cracked or broken, or needs protection after a root canal. They’re also used to cover a dental implant or to improve the appearance of a severely discolored or misshapen tooth.
At Marina Pointe Dental, we work with tooth-colored materials designed to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth. The most common choices include porcelain, ceramic, and porcelain-fused-to-metal, each with different strengths depending on where the crown is placed and what your bite demands.
Here’s a quick look at when each material tends to be a good fit:
Each case is different, and Dr. Nieves and Dr. Paranthaman will walk you through which option makes the most sense for your tooth, your bite, and your goals before any treatment begins.
A dental bridge is exactly what the name suggests. It bridges the gap left by one or more missing teeth. A traditional bridge uses the teeth on either side of the space, called abutment teeth, as anchors. Each anchor tooth receives a crown, and an artificial tooth called a pontic hangs between them to fill the gap. The result is a fixed, non-removable restoration that restores your ability to chew and speak normally while stopping the surrounding teeth from shifting out of place.
It can be tempting to put off treating a missing tooth, especially if it’s not visible when you smile. But leaving that gap unaddressed can set off a chain of problems over time. When a tooth is missing, the bone below it begins to deteriorate from lack of stimulation, and neighboring teeth tend to drift toward the open space, affecting your bite and alignment. Bridges halt that process and restore function before those secondary issues take hold. For patients wondering whether a bridge or a single dental implant might be a better fit, we take the time to review both options honestly and help you make the decision that’s right for your specific situation.
Getting a crown or bridge at Marina Pointe Dental typically involves two visits. During the first appointment, we prepare the tooth or teeth receiving crowns, take precise impressions, and place a temporary crown to protect the area while your permanent restoration is being fabricated. At the second visit, the permanent crown or bridge is carefully fitted, adjusted for your bite, and cemented into place.
We know dental appointments can feel daunting, especially if it’s been a while or if past experiences weren’t great. Our team moves at your pace, explains every step before we take it, and genuinely wants you to feel comfortable throughout the process. That kind of care isn’t a company policy. It’s just how Dr. Nieves and Dr. Paranthaman practice dentistry.
With proper care, a well-placed crown or bridge can last for many years. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily (including under the bridge), and keeping up with your routine dental cleanings and exams are the ideal ways to protect your investment. Avoiding habits like chewing ice, grinding your teeth, or using your teeth to open packaging will also go a long way toward preventing damage. If you grind at night, we may recommend a night guard as an added layer of protection.
We believe cost should never be the reason someone delays care that’s genuinely needed. Marina Pointe Dental accepts most PPO insurance plans, including Tricare for military families near Tyndall AFB, and we offer flexible financing options to make treatment more accessible. Our team is happy to walk through your coverage and payment options before any work is scheduled, so there are no surprises.
At Marina Pointe Dental, you receive restorative care from experienced dentists who stay current with the latest techniques. We take time to understand your situation, use modern technology for precision, and provide a welcoming environment where you’ll see the same friendly faces at every visit. We accept most major insurance plans and offer flexible financing through CareCredit and Cherry.
