Missing a tooth in a row? A bridge anchors a replacement to the teeth on either side without needing an implant. Smile Center Dentistry matches shade and shape to your surrounding teeth before anything is fabricated.
Material choice affects durability and cost differently depending on which tooth is involved, and we explain that honestly. A restoration is only as good as its fit, which is why we don't rush that step.
Digital impressions reduce fitting errors compared to traditional putty molds. Digital files transmit to the lab instantly, which can shorten turnaround time.
Zirconia, e.max, and porcelain-fused-to-metal each have trade-offs in strength, appearance, and cost — we walk through all three. Material recommendations are specific to the tooth, not a blanket default across every case.
A crown that's slightly high can cause pain within days — we catch that before you leave the chair. We'd rather take five extra minutes than have you return uncomfortable.
We don't consider the case done until you're chewing comfortably on it. Guarantee terms are explained clearly at your consult, not buried in paperwork.
Crowns and bridges serve different purposes depending on what's damaged or missing — here's what we offer.
Highly durable and metal-free, zirconia is a strong choice for back teeth that handle heavy chewing force. Ideal when strength is the top priority.
E.max balances strength and aesthetics well for visible teeth where appearance matters most. We explain when this material fits better than zirconia for your case.
A metal substructure with a porcelain outer layer offers strength at a lower cost than all-ceramic options. A solid option for back teeth where appearance is less of a priority.
We evaluate whether your adjacent teeth are healthy enough to support a bridge before recommending it over an implant. Bridges avoid surgery but do require altering the supporting teeth.
While your permanent crown is fabricated, a temporary protects the prepared tooth from sensitivity and damage. Same-day crown milling may be available depending on your case and material choice.
An older crown that's cracked, loose, or decaying underneath can often be replaced without starting from scratch. We'll tell you honestly which option actually solves the problem.
Call +1-866-227-2801 to schedule your exam and discuss which tooth needs restoration.
A temporary crown protects the tooth while your permanent restoration is made.
You choose based on a clear explanation of durability, appearance, and cost trade-offs.
We adjust until it feels natural before you leave, not just acceptable.
"They explained why zirconia made more sense for my molar than e.max. Appreciated the honest reasoning."
"Bridge instead of an implant since my adjacent teeth already needed crowns anyway. Made financial sense and they explained why."
"Temporary crown while waiting for the permanent one didn't feel like a cheap afterthought — fit well the whole time."
"PFM crown on my back molar three years now, holding up exactly as they said it would."
"Old crown from another dentist had decay creeping underneath. They replaced it instead of just patching over the problem."
Typically two visits over one to two weeks — prep and impression first, then final fitting once the lab completes your restoration. Bridges involving multiple teeth sometimes take slightly longer to fabricate.
Zirconia suits back teeth needing strength; e.max often suits visible front teeth better. Budget is a legitimate factor too, and we'll discuss cost differences openly.
It depends on the health of your adjacent teeth and your long-term goals — we walk through both options honestly. We'll tell you if your adjacent teeth already need crowns anyway, which can tip the decision toward a bridge.
Front teeth get materials chosen specifically for translucency and natural appearance. Back teeth prioritize strength since they're less visible when you smile.
Come back and we'll adjust the fit or bite at no extra charge within the guarantee period. Most bite adjustments take just a few minutes chairside.
Cost depends on material choice and whether it's a single crown or a multi-tooth bridge — we quote this after your exam. Financing options are available for larger restoration cases.
Our team serves Durham and the surrounding zip codes with the same material-matched approach at every visit. New and existing patients throughout Durham are welcome to book a restoration consult.
Licensed, precise, and local to Durham — call and ask about your options.
Call +1-866-227-2801