Consultation
Dr. Shah examines your tooth, takes X-rays, and reviews your options — crown or bridge — based on your oral health and goals.
Dental Crowns & Bridges in Lake Mary, FL
Rebuild Your Smile with Confidence
Crown Placement:1–2 visits
Bridge Placement:2 visits
Crown Lifespan:10–15+ years
Material Options:Zirconia, porcelain, PFM
The Problem
Damaged & Missing Teeth Affect More Than Your Smile
Pain, shifting, and bone loss add up fast
A cracked, decayed, or broken tooth does more damage over time than most patients expect. Chewing becomes uncomfortable or painful, neighboring teeth begin to drift into the gap, and the jawbone beneath a missing tooth starts to weaken from lack of stimulation. Many patients put off treatment hoping the problem will resolve on its own — only to find a simple restoration has become a far more complex procedure.
Dental crowns cap and protect a damaged tooth from further fracture, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance in as little as two visits. A dental bridge anchors a lifelike prosthetic tooth between two crowns on adjacent teeth, closing the gap and preserving your bite. Dr. Shah matches every restoration to your natural tooth color and contour, so the result blends seamlessly — and you leave with a smile you feel good about.
Understanding Your Treatment
What Are Dental Crowns & Bridges?
Precision Restorations Built to Last
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits entirely over a damaged, weakened, or severely decayed tooth — or over a dental implant. Once bonded in place, the crown restores the tooth's original size, shape, and strength while protecting it from further damage. Modern crowns are most commonly fabricated from zirconia or porcelain, materials strong enough to withstand normal biting forces and translucent enough to mimic the natural appearance of enamel.
A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) prosthetic that replaces one or more missing teeth by spanning the gap between two anchor teeth — called abutment teeth. The two abutments are crowned and a pontic (artificial tooth) is fused between them, restoring a full arch of teeth without implant surgery. Bridges are cemented permanently to the abutment teeth and are maintained with regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings.
Both restorations are custom-fabricated from impressions or digital scans of your mouth so that fit, color, and bite alignment are precise. At Enclave Dental, Dr. Shah uses high-strength materials and works with premium dental labs to ensure every crown and bridge meets rigorous standards for durability and aesthetics.
Treatment Timeline
Treatment Time
60–90 minutes per visit
Visits Required
1–2 visits for crown; 2 visits for bridge
Lab Turnaround
1–2 weeks (temporary worn in the interim)
Recovery
Mild sensitivity 1–2 days; normal activity resumes immediately
Why Patients Choose Crowns & Bridges 
Benefits of Dental Crowns & Bridges
Lasting strength and natural beauty
- 01
Restored Function
Eat, speak, and chew comfortably — crowns and bridges handle full biting force
- 02
Natural Appearance
Tooth-colored zirconia or porcelain blends seamlessly with your surrounding teeth
- 03
Long-Lasting Results
With proper care, crowns and bridges typically last 10–15 years or longer
- 04
Prevents Further Damage
Seals and protects vulnerable tooth structure from fracture, decay, and sensitivity
- 05
Preserves Bite Alignment
Filling the gap from a missing tooth stops adjacent teeth from drifting out of position
Crowns & Bridges vs. Alternatives
Comparing your restoration options
| Option | Best For | Procedure | Looks Natural? | Preserves Bone? | Removable? | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Crown | Damaged/weak existing tooth | Tooth prep + cap in 1–2 visits | Yes — tooth-colored | N/A (tooth remains) | No (fixed) | 10–15+ years |
| Dental Bridge | 1–3 consecutive missing teeth | Prep abutments + lab fabrication | Yes — custom matched | No (no implant root) | No (fixed) | 10–15 years |
| Dental Implant | Single missing tooth with healthy bone | Surgical placement + healing period | Yes — most natural | Yes — stimulates jawbone | No (fixed) | 20+ years |
| Partial Denture | Multiple missing teeth, lower cost | Impressions + removable appliance | Good — visible clasps possible | No | Yes (removable) | 5–10 years |
Dental Bridges in Lake Mary
Dental Bridges in Lake Mary
Real Patient Results
Real Results
Every crown and bridge at Enclave Dental is custom-shaded and contoured to match your natural teeth. Patients consistently report that their restoration is indistinguishable from their surrounding teeth — and that the procedure was far more comfortable than they anticipated. Results are immediate upon final cementation and improve further as you adapt to your restored bite.
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Is This Right for You?
Who Is a Good Candidate for Crowns or Bridges?
Find out if restorative care fits your needs
Most adults with a damaged tooth or a gap from tooth loss are candidates for a crown or bridge. Dr. Shah evaluates your overall oral health, bone structure, and bite to confirm the right restoration for your specific situation.
Ideal Candidates for Dental Crowns
- Teeth with large cavities too extensive for a standard filling
- Cracked, fractured, or severely worn teeth
- Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment
- Teeth with existing large or failing fillings that need full coverage
- Implant restorations requiring a crown on top
Ideal Candidates for Dental Bridges
- Adults with one to three consecutive missing teeth
- Patients with healthy adjacent teeth to serve as abutments
- Those who prefer a fixed (non-removable) restoration without implant surgery
- Patients with sufficient jawbone but who are not candidates for implants
Who Should Consider an Alternative
- Patients with advanced gum disease requiring treatment before restoration
- Those missing many teeth, where a partial or full denture may be more appropriate
- Patients who prefer implant-supported restorations for maximum long-term bone preservation
- Children or adolescents whose teeth and jaw are still developing
Dr. Shah will walk you through every option during your consultation so you can make a confident, informed decision about your care.
Your Experience
The Crown & Bridge Process at Enclave Dental
Tooth Preparation
Dr. Shah gently shapes the tooth (or abutment teeth for a bridge) and takes a precise digital impression to send to the dental lab.
Temporary Restoration
Dr. Shah places a custom temporary crown or bridge to protect your tooth and maintain your appearance while the lab fabricates your permanent restoration.
Final Placement
At your second visit, Dr. Shah removes the temporary, checks the fit and color match, then permanently bonds your crown or bridge in place.
Bite Check & Care Instructions
Dr. Shah verifies your bite is comfortable and provides personalized care instructions to maximize the life of your new restoration.
Safety & Considerations
Side Effects & What to Watch For
Transparent, honest care
Dental crowns and bridges are among the most predictable and well-tolerated restorative procedures in dentistry. Serious complications are rare when restorations are properly placed and maintained. Here is what patients typically experience:
Common and expected after placement:
- Tooth sensitivity: Mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure is normal for a few days after your crown or bridge is cemented. This resolves on its own as your tooth settles.
- Gum tenderness: The gum tissue around a newly prepared tooth may feel slightly sore or swollen for 2–3 days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and saltwater rinses provide relief.
- Bite adjustment: Your bite may feel slightly off at first. If discomfort persists beyond a few days, Dr. Shah can make a simple adjustment at a short follow-up visit.
Less common considerations:
- Temporary cement washout: A temporary crown can occasionally come loose before your final restoration is placed. Contact our office promptly and we'll re-cement it the same day.
- Allergic reaction: Extremely rare — typically associated with metal alloys in older porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. Zirconia and all-ceramic crowns are biocompatible and hypoallergenic.
- Crown fracture: Zirconia is highly resistant to fracture, but grinding or clenching teeth (bruxism) can shorten crown lifespan. Dr. Shah may recommend a night guard to protect your investment.
Contact Enclave Dental at (407) 323-1010 if you experience persistent pain, a loose crown, or any sharp edges after your placement appointment.
Cost of Dental Crowns & Bridges in Lake Mary, FL
Transparent pricing and flexible financing
The cost of a dental crown or bridge in Lake Mary, FL varies depending on the material selected, the number of teeth involved, and whether preparatory treatment (such as a buildup or root canal) is needed. Below are general estimates for the Lake Mary area:
| Restoration | Estimated Cost | Material Options |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Crown (single tooth) | $1,000–$1,800 per crown | Zirconia, all-porcelain, PFM |
| Three-Unit Dental Bridge | $2,500–$6,000 | Zirconia, porcelain-fused-to-metal |
| Zirconia Crown (premium) | $1,200–$2,000 | Full-contour zirconia |
Factors that affect your final cost:
- Material selected (zirconia is more durable and natural-looking than PFM)
- Number of teeth being restored
- Whether a dental core buildup is needed before crown placement
- Diagnostic imaging (X-rays) and examination fees
Does dental insurance cover crowns and bridges? Most PPO dental insurance plans cover a portion of crown and bridge costs — typically 50% after your deductible, up to your annual maximum. Enclave Dental works with most major insurance plans and will provide a detailed pre-treatment estimate so you know your out-of-pocket costs before your procedure begins.
Financing options: We offer flexible payment plans to help fit restorative care into your budget. Ask our front desk team about financing through Cherry, Sunbit, and CareCredit during your consultation. Call us at (407) 323-1010 or request a cost estimate online.
Why Enclave Dental
Why Choose Enclave Dental for Crowns & Bridges
Lake Mary's trusted restorative team
Experienced Restorative Dentist
Dr. Shah brings advanced training in crowns, bridges, and full smile reconstruction
Premium Materials
High-strength zirconia and porcelain restorations crafted by top-tier dental labs
Comfortable Care
Gentle technique and thorough anesthesia keep your visit stress-free from prep to placement
Convenient Lake Mary Location
Serving patients from Sanford, Longwood, Altamonte Springs, Heathrow, and Winter Springs
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All Services
More Dental Services in Lake Mary
Preventive Dentistry
Restorative Dentistry
Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental Crowns & Bridges FAQ
Answers from Dr. Shah's team
01 How long does a dental crown last?
With proper care — daily brushing and flossing, regular cleanings, and wearing a night guard if you grind — most crowns last 10–15 years or longer. Zirconia crowns are particularly durable and can exceed 15 years in ideal conditions.
02 What is the difference between a crown and a cap?
They are the same thing. 'Dental cap' is an older, informal term patients often use; 'dental crown' is the current clinical term. Both refer to a tooth-shaped covering bonded over a damaged or weakened tooth.
03 Do I need a crown or can I just get a filling?
Fillings repair small-to-moderate cavities and minor chips. When decay or damage involves more than about half the tooth's structure, a crown provides better protection and longevity. Dr. Shah will recommend the most conservative option that protects your tooth long-term.
04 How long does it take to get a crown?
Most crown placements at Enclave Dental require two visits: a preparation appointment (60–90 min) and a placement appointment (30–60 min) about 1–2 weeks later once the lab completes your custom crown.
05 Does getting a crown hurt?
The tooth preparation is done under local anesthesia, so you should feel only pressure — not pain — during the procedure. Some patients experience mild sensitivity for 1–2 days after the appointment, which resolves quickly.
06 What is a zirconia crown?
Zirconia is a ceramic material known for exceptional strength and a natural tooth-like translucency. It is metal-free, biocompatible, and highly resistant to chipping — making it the preferred material for most crowns at Enclave Dental, especially on back teeth that sustain heavy biting forces.
07 How much does a dental bridge cost in Lake Mary, FL?
A three-unit dental bridge in the Lake Mary area typically ranges from $2,500 to $6,000 depending on materials and your insurance coverage. Enclave Dental provides a detailed cost estimate before treatment begins so there are no surprises.
Location3232 W Lake Mary Blvd, STE 1400
Lake Mary, FL, 32746
Lake Mary, FL, 32746
Emailinfo@enclave.dental
Phone(407) 323-1010
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Schedule Your Crowns and Bridges Consultation
References
- PubMed (PMID: 28437604) — Systematic review found zirconia crowns had a 5-year survival rate of 95.9%, comparable to metal-ceramic restorations.
- PubMed (PMID: 24717707) — Clinical study demonstrated that three-unit posterior zirconia bridges showed 98.3% survival at 3 years with minimal chipping.
- PubMed (PMID: 30368991) — Review confirmed that all-ceramic crowns placed after root canal treatment significantly reduced the risk of tooth fracture compared to no coronal coverage.
- PubMed (PMID: 26071901) — Prospective study found that fixed dental bridges achieved 93.5% survival at 10 years when supported by healthy abutment teeth and maintained with regular hygiene.