Overview
When a filling isn’t enough
A crown is a custom cap that covers the entire visible part of a tooth. It holds a cracked tooth together, protects a tooth after a root canal, rebuilds one that has more filling than tooth left, and improves the look of a discolored or misshapen tooth.
A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring false teeth to crowns on the teeth beside the gap. It is fixed in place — you brush it like your natural teeth — and it stops neighboring teeth from drifting into the empty space.
We favor metal-free, tooth-colored materials such as porcelain and zirconia whenever they fit the situation, in keeping with our mercury-free, biocompatible approach. Dr. Bernkrant will show you on the screen why a crown is (or isn’t) the right call for each tooth.
At a glance
- Protects cracked, broken or worn-down teeth
- Restores teeth after a root canal
- Replaces missing teeth with a fixed bridge
- Metal-free porcelain and zirconia options
- Shade-matched to your natural teeth
- Any PPO or Medicare dental plan accepted
Treatment by Dr. Shanna Bernkrant, DMD at our West Dixie Highway office.
When it’s needed
Signs you may need a crown or bridge
A cracked or broken tooth
Pain when biting or sudden sensitivity to cold can mean a crack. A crown holds the tooth together before the crack spreads.
A large, failing filling
When most of a tooth is filling, the remaining walls can fracture. A crown covers and protects what is left.
After a root canal
Back teeth that have had root canal treatment become brittle and usually need a crown to avoid splitting.
A missing tooth
A bridge fills the gap in a few visits, restoring chewing and keeping neighboring teeth from tipping or shifting.
Cosmetic concerns
Severely stained, chipped or misshapen teeth can be covered with natural-looking crowns. For healthy teeth that are just discolored or crooked, whitening or Invisalign may be all you need.
Step by step
What to expect
- Exam & X-raysWe confirm the tooth is healthy enough for a crown and check the supporting teeth for a bridge.
- PreparationUnder local anesthesia, the tooth is shaped and an impression is taken. You leave with a temporary crown.
- Lab fabricationA dental lab crafts your final crown or bridge to match the shade and shape we specify.
- Final fittingWe check the fit, bite and color, then bond it in place. You can chew normally once the anesthesia wears off.
Cost & coverage
Paying for crowns and bridges in North Miami
We accept any PPO dental plan and any Medicare dental plan, and we file the claim for you. Coverage for crowns and bridges depends on your plan, so we verify your benefits and give you a written estimate before treatment starts — no surprise bills.
No insurance? Your consultation is free, and our in-office savings plan and payment options spread the cost into manageable pieces. We do not publish fixed prices online because the right treatment — and the cost — depends on what we find at your exam.
Most dental plans treat crowns and bridges as major restorative care and cover a percentage after your deductible. We will submit a pre-estimate to your insurance if you would like the exact figure before you decide.
FAQ
Crowns & Bridges questions, answered
How long does a dental crown last?
A well-made crown commonly lasts 10–15 years or longer. Good home care, regular cleanings and a night guard if you grind your teeth all help it go the distance.
Do crowns look natural?
Yes. Porcelain and zirconia crowns are shaded to match your teeth and reflect light like natural enamel. Most people cannot tell which tooth is crowned.
Is getting a crown painful?
The tooth is fully numbed during preparation. Some sensitivity for a few days afterward is normal and fades quickly.
Bridge or implant — which is better?
Implants do not involve the neighboring teeth and help preserve bone, but they take longer and cost more upfront. A bridge is faster and often less expensive. We will compare both for your situation.
What if my temporary crown comes off?
Call us and we will re-cement it. In the meantime, keep it clean and avoid chewing on that side. Don’t leave the tooth uncovered for long.
A cracked tooth won’t heal on its own. Let’s protect it.
If it hurts to bite or a filling broke, call us — the sooner a crack is covered, the more tooth we can save.
Keep exploring
Related care at our North Miami office
Dental Implants
A permanent, natural-feeling way to replace one tooth, several, or a full arch.
Holistic & Mercury-Free Dentistry
Metal-free, biocompatible materials and a conservative, whole-body approach.
Emergency Dentist
Toothache, broken tooth or swelling? Call — we make room for same-day visits.
Teeth Whitening
Professional in-office and take-home whitening that is safe for enamel.