Crowns & Bridges

Dental Crowns & Bridges in Charlottesville, VA

At Willis & Associates Family Dentistry Ivy – Charlottesville, dental crowns and bridges are among our most frequently recommended restorative treatments. Dr. Michelle Kim uses high-quality materials and precise techniques to restore damaged, decayed, or missing teeth — giving you a smile that looks, feels, and functions naturally.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible portion of a damaged tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are recommended when a tooth is too compromised for a simple filling but can still be preserved rather than extracted.

Common reasons for dental crowns include:

• Large cavities that cannot be repaired with a filling alone
• Cracked, chipped, or fractured teeth
• Teeth weakened by root canal therapy
• Severely worn or misshapen teeth
• Cosmetic improvement of discolored or poorly shaped teeth

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. Bridges restore your ability to chew and speak comfortably, prevent neighboring teeth from shifting, and maintain the natural shape of your face.

Crown & Bridge Materials

We offer several high-quality materials to match your needs and aesthetic goals:

• Porcelain & Ceramic: Excellent color matching for a natural appearance — ideal for front teeth
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal: Combines strength and aesthetics for back teeth
• Zirconia: Extremely durable and lifelike — a popular choice for both front and back teeth

The Treatment Process

Getting a crown or bridge typically requires two visits. During the first appointment, Dr. Kim prepares the tooth, takes precise digital impressions, and places a comfortable temporary restoration. Your custom crown or bridge is fabricated by a trusted dental laboratory. At your second visit, we bond the permanent restoration in place and ensure a perfect fit and bite.

Caring for Your Crown or Bridge

With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, crowns and bridges can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Brush and floss daily, use a floss threader under bridges, and visit Willis & Associates Family Dentistry Ivy for routine checkups to protect your investment.

Considering a crown or bridge? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Michelle Kim by calling 434-977-4101 or requesting an appointment online.