Dental Crowns and Bridges
in Calgary
Strong, natural-looking restorations that protect damaged teeth and fill the gaps left by missing ones.
About Dental Crowns and Bridges
Crowns and bridges are time-tested ways to rebuild teeth that are broken, worn or missing. A crown covers a damaged tooth like a custom-made cap. A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by joining a replacement tooth to crowns on the teeth beside the gap. Both are made to match the shape, size and colour of your natural teeth.
If you need a dental crown or bridge in SW Calgary, our team at West 17th Avenue Dental Care offers both as part of our restorative dentistry services. We explain your options and recommend the one that will serve you well for years.
Dental Crowns
A crown, sometimes called a tooth cap, surrounds the whole visible part of a tooth to restore its strength, shape and appearance. You may need a crown when:
- A tooth is cracked, broken or badly worn.
- A large filling no longer has enough tooth to support it.
- A tooth has had a Root Canal Treatment and needs protection.
- A tooth is badly discoloured or misshapen.
- A crown is needed to cover a dental implant.
Porcelain crowns blend in beautifully with your natural teeth. Your dentist will talk with you about the best material for the tooth.
Dental Bridges
A bridge fills the space left by a missing tooth, which keeps your remaining teeth from drifting out of position and restores your ability to chew and smile. A typical bridge has a replacement tooth in the middle, held in place by crowns on the teeth on each side of the gap. Your dentist will check that the supporting teeth are healthy and strong enough.
Crown vs Bridge: Which Do You Need?
- You have a damaged tooth that is still there: a crown is usually the answer.
- You have a gap from a missing tooth, and healthy teeth on both sides: a bridge may be a good choice.
- You want a replacement that does not depend on neighbouring teeth: consider Dental Implants.
- You are missing several teeth: Dentures may be an option.
Before Your Crown or Bridge Appointment
- Tell us about your health history, medications and allergies.
- Have any decay, infection or gum problems treated first, so the crown or bridge has a healthy base.
- Have a light meal beforehand, since your mouth will be numb for a few hours afterwards.
- Expect the first visit to take longer than a regular check-up, since the teeth are shaped and impressions or scans are taken.
- Plan for a second visit to fit your final crown or bridge, and ask about the timing at your first appointment.
- If you feel anxious, ask us about sedation before your visit.
The Crown and Bridge Process
Exam and planning. Your dentist examines the tooth and takes X-rays to confirm the best treatment.
Preparation. We numb the area and shape the tooth, or teeth, to receive the crown or bridge.
Impressions. Impressions or digital scans are sent to a dental laboratory that makes your restoration.
Temporary restoration. A temporary crown or bridge protects your teeth while the final restoration is made.
Final fitting. We check the fit, bite and colour, then cement your crown or bridge in place.
Aftercare for Crowns and Bridges
- Wait until the numbness wears off before you eat, so you do not bite your cheek or tongue.
- While you have a temporary crown or bridge, avoid sticky or hard foods and floss carefully, pulling the floss out sideways instead of lifting it.
- Some sensitivity to hot and cold is common for a few days after the final fitting.
- Brush twice a day and floss daily, including under the bridge with a floss threader or interdental brush.
- Keep up with regular check-ups and cleanings.
- Avoid chewing ice, hard candy and other hard objects.
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth.
- Call us if a crown or temporary feels loose or comes off, or if your bite feels uneven.
Why Choose West 17th Avenue Dental Care
- More than 30 years serving Calgary families, with a clinic on 17th Avenue SW.
- A 4.9 Google rating from more than 200 reviews.
- A multilingual team that speaks English, Mandarin, Taiwanese, Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu.
- Direct billing to most major insurance plans and 0% interest financing available.
- Open six days a week, with a free parking lot north of the building, accessible from 15th Street SW.
Cost of Crowns and Bridges
The cost of a crown or bridge depends on the material, the number of teeth involved and the preparation needed. A single crown costs less than a bridge. Many insurance plans cover a portion of the cost, and we bill most major plans directly. We explain costs before we begin and offer 0% interest financing. You can read more in our Financial Options section or call (403) 244-1124.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need a dental crown?
You may need a crown if a tooth is cracked, badly worn or decayed, has a large filling, or has had a root canal. If a tooth breaks suddenly, call us right away. See our Emergency Dentist page.
How long do crowns and bridges last?
With good care, crowns and bridges can last many years. How long they last depends on your oral hygiene, your habits and the material, and your dentist can give you a realistic estimate.
What is the difference between a crown and a bridge?
A crown covers a single damaged tooth. A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by attaching a replacement tooth to crowns on the neighbouring teeth.
Is getting a crown painful?
We numb the area before we begin, so the procedure should be comfortable. Your tooth may feel sensitive for a few days afterwards.
How much does a dental crown or bridge cost in Calgary?
The cost depends on the material and the number of teeth involved. Call (403) 244-1124 for an estimate. We bill most major insurance plans directly and offer 0% interest financing.
Book Your Appointment
Ready for a Healthier Smile? New patients welcome, direct billing and 0% financing available. Call us at (403) 244-1124 or book online.