General Dentistry in Thunder Bay, ON

Crowns & Bridges in Thunder Bay, ON

A damaged tooth or a gap from a missing tooth doesn’t have to stay that way. Redwood Dental Centre fits custom crowns and bridges to restore how your teeth look and work, with clear steps from the first exam to the final fit.

What Are Crowns & Bridges?

A crown is a cap that covers a tooth that’s cracked, worn down, or weakened by a large filling. It restores the tooth’s shape and lets you bite and chew normally again. A bridge fills the space left by one or more missing teeth. It uses the teeth next to the gap, sometimes with crowns placed on top of them, to hold a replacement tooth firmly in position. Both a crown and a bridge are custom made to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth.

Why Crowns & Bridges Matter

A damaged or missing tooth affects more than your smile. Here’s what a crown or bridge helps protect.

Protecting a Weak Tooth

A crown covers a cracked or heavily filled tooth so it can handle normal chewing without breaking further.

Keeping Your Bite Even

A missing tooth can let nearby teeth shift out of position over time. A bridge holds the space and keeps your bite steady.

Making Eating and Speaking Easier

Replacing a damaged or missing tooth helps you chew comfortably and speak clearly, without working around the gap.

What Happens During Treatment

Here’s what to expect if Dr. Ameen recommends a crown or bridge for you.

Exam and Plan

Dr. Ameen checks the tooth or the gap, takes any needed X-rays, and explains whether a crown, a bridge, or another option fits your situation.

Preparing the Tooth

We numb the area, then shape the tooth (or teeth) so the crown or bridge fits properly. An impression is taken to build your custom piece.

Temporary Fitting

You’ll wear a temporary crown or bridge while your permanent one is being made, so your tooth stays protected in the meantime.

Final Placement

Once your custom crown or bridge is ready, we check the fit and bite, then secure it in place.

Caring for Your Crown or Bridge

Brush twice a day and floss once a day, including around the edges of the crown or bridge
Avoid chewing ice or very hard foods, which can crack a crown or affect the bite
Keep up with regular checkups so Dr. Ameen can check the fit and the health of the tooth underneath
Let us know right away if a crown or bridge feels loose or uneven

Is a Crown or Bridge Right for You?

Crowns and bridges fit a range of situations. Here’s when Dr. Ameen might recommend one.

Common Reasons for a Crown

A cracked tooth, a large filling that’s worn down, or a tooth that’s had root canal treatment often needs a crown for support.

Common Reasons for a Bridge

One or more missing teeth in a row, with healthy teeth (or crowns) on either side to anchor it, is a common case for a bridge.

General Dentist Providing Care

All care is provided by Dr. Ahmed Ameen Al-Obaidi (Dr. Ameen), a General Dentist, with over 20 years of experience in general dentistry.

Understanding Cost and Insurance

Billing for a crown or bridge depends on the material used and the number of teeth involved, so Dr. Ameen will give you an exact quote after your exam. Whatever fee is quoted covers the full treatment, including lab costs for building your custom crown or bridge, and it applies the same way to every patient regardless of insurance coverage. Our front desk reviews your specific insurance benefits before treatment starts so you know what to expect.

A Quote Before You Start

You’ll receive the exact cost of your crown or bridge before any work begins, with no fees added later.

Insurance Coordination

We work with most insurance plans and check your coverage ahead of time so there are no surprises at checkout.

Paying Out of Pocket

If you do not have insurance, our front desk can walk you through the cost of your treatment before you commit.

Crowns & Bridges FAQs

A crown covers a single damaged tooth. A bridge fills the gap from one or more missing teeth. A crown is a cap that covers and protects a tooth. A bridge attaches to the teeth, or crowns, on either side of a gap to hold a replacement tooth in place. Both are custom made to match your other teeth.

What is the difference between a crown & bridge?

How long does it take to get a crown or bridge?

Most crowns and bridges take two visits, spaced a couple of weeks apart. At the first visit, Dr. Ameen prepares the tooth, takes an impression, and fits you with a temporary. The second visit is when we place your finished crown or bridge and check the fit.

Will getting a crown or bridge hurt?

We numb the area first, so you should not feel pain during the appointment. Some patients notice mild sensitivity for a few days afterward, especially to hot or cold. Let us know if anything feels off after your visit and we’ll take a look.

Does insurance cover crowns & bridges

Most plans cover a portion of the cost. Our front desk checks your specific coverage before treatment starts, so you know what to expect on the bill. If you do not have insurance, we’ll walk you through the cost directly.

How long do crowns and bridges last?

It depends on the material, your bite, and how well you care for it. Regular brushing, flossing, and checkups all play a role. Dr. Ameen will let you know what to expect for your specific case and how to help it hold up over time.

Ready for a healthier smile?

New patients welcome. Direct billing to most insurance plans.

Redwood Dental has been serving families across Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario for over two decades.