A confident smile can make all the difference — whether it’s in a conversation, a photograph, or a first impression. But when teeth are damaged, decayed, or missing, that confidence can fade quickly. At Olive Branch Columbus, our mission is to restore both your smile and your confidence through advanced restorative dental treatments, including crowns and bridges.

Understanding Crowns and Bridges

Crowns and bridges are two of the most common restorative solutions in modern dentistry. Both are custom-made prosthetics designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth — but they serve slightly different purposes.

A dental crown, often called a “cap,” covers a damaged or weakened tooth entirely. It helps restore its shape, size, and strength while improving its appearance. Crowns are typically used after a root canal, a large filling, or to protect a cracked tooth from further damage.

A dental bridge, on the other hand, is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It literally “bridges” the gap between existing teeth using a set of artificial teeth (called pontics) supported by crowns on either side. The result is a natural-looking smile that restores both function and harmony.

When You Might Need a Crown

There are several reasons your dentist at Olive Branch Columbus might recommend a crown:

• To protect a weak tooth from breaking or restore a broken one.

• To cover a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t much structure left.

• After root canal treatment, to strengthen the treated tooth.

• To improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth.

• To anchor a bridge or cover a dental implant.

Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys. At Olive Branch Columbus, we focus on aesthetic and durable materials that blend perfectly with your natural teeth, ensuring long-lasting results.

When a Bridge Is the Best Option

Missing teeth do more than leave gaps in your smile — they can affect your ability to chew properly, alter your bite, and even cause your remaining teeth to shift out of alignment. A dental bridge helps prevent these issues.

Bridges are often recommended when:

• You have one or more missing teeth in a row.

• You want a fixed (non-removable) solution.

• The teeth on either side of the gap are strong enough to support crowns.

A well-designed bridge not only restores your smile but also maintains the shape of your face and distributes bite forces evenly.

The Process at Olive Branch Columbus

Getting a crown or bridge at Olive Branch Columbus is a comfortable and carefully guided process designed with your care and convenience in mind.

1. Initial Consultation:
   Our dental team begins with a detailed examination of your mouth, including X-rays or scans if necessary. We’ll discuss your concerns, explain the options, and recommend what’s best suited for your needs.

2. Tooth Preparation:
   For crowns, the damaged tooth is gently reshaped so the crown can fit securely. For bridges, the supporting teeth (abutments) are prepared to hold the crowns that will anchor the bridge.

3. Impressions and Temporary Restoration:
   Precise impressions are taken to create a custom-fitted crown or bridge that matches your bite and smile. You’ll receive a temporary crown or bridge to protect your teeth while the permanent one is being crafted.

4. Final Placement:
   Once your restoration is ready, it’s checked for perfect fit, shape, and color. After any small adjustments, it’s securely bonded into place, restoring full function and beauty.

The Benefits You’ll Experience

At Olive Branch Columbus, we believe restorative dentistry should do more than just repair — it should rejuvenate your smile. Crowns and bridges provide a range of benefits, including:

• Improved chewing and speech: No more discomfort or awkwardness while eating or talking.

• Restored appearance: Your smile looks complete, natural, and confident again.

• Enhanced comfort: Custom fitting ensures it feels just like your natural teeth.

• Long-lasting durability: With proper care, crowns and bridges can last for many years.

• Prevention of shifting: Keeps remaining teeth aligned and stable.

Caring for Your Crowns and Bridges

Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining your restoration. While crowns and bridges themselves cannot decay, the supporting teeth underneath still can. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings at Olive Branch Columbus will help you keep your new smile healthy.

Our dentists may also recommend using a floss threader or an interdental brush to clean beneath the bridge where food particles can get trapped. Avoid using your teeth as tools or biting on very hard objects, as that could damage your crown or bridge.

Why Patients Trust Olive Branch Columbus

Our clinic combines modern dental technology with a warm, patient-focused approach. From precise digital imaging to advanced materials, every treatment is guided by accuracy, comfort, and long-term results. More than that, we take time to listen — ensuring you understand your treatment, feel comfortable throughout the process, and leave with a smile you’re proud of.

Whether you’re repairing a single tooth or replacing several, our team ensures that your crown or bridge blends seamlessly with your natural teeth — both in look and feel.

A Smile Worth Sharing

At Olive Branch Columbus, we understand how much a complete smile means. Crowns and bridges are more than restorations — they’re confidence restorers, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile without hesitation.

If you’re ready to regain your natural, radiant smile, our team is here to help you every step of the way. Because at Olive Branch Columbus, your smile deserves the very best care — and we’re here to make that happen.