When a tooth is cracked, worn, badly decayed or missing, restorative dentistry brings back its strength, function and appearance. Dr. Holcombe provides crowns, bridges and tooth-colored fillings designed to blend in with your natural smile.
Because you see the same dentist at every visit, Dr. Holcombe gets to know your teeth over time — so he can catch small problems early and recommend the simplest repair that will last.
Restorative Treatments We Offer
Dental Crowns
A crown is a custom cap that covers the entire visible part of a tooth. It protects a cracked, weakened or heavily filled tooth, restores its shape and improves its appearance. Crowns are also used to protect a tooth after a root canal and to restore dental implants.
Dental Bridges
A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a replacement tooth to the teeth on each side of the gap. It restores your bite, helps you chew comfortably and keeps neighboring teeth from drifting.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
Resin composite fillings repair cavities and small chips while matching the natural color of your tooth, so they’re hard to notice.
When Do You Need a Crown?
- A large cavity that is too big for a filling
- A cracked, broken or badly worn tooth
- A tooth that has had a root canal, especially a back tooth
- A large, old filling that is breaking down
- A discolored or misshapen tooth you’d like to improve
- Restoring a dental implant
If a tooth is missing, a bridge, an implant restoration or a partial denture can fill the space. Dr. Holcombe will explain the pros and cons of each.
Getting a Dental Crown
Exam & X-rays
Dr. Holcombe evaluates the tooth and explains your options.
Preparing the tooth
The tooth is numbed and gently shaped so the crown fits securely.
Impressions & temporary
We record the shape of your tooth and protect it with a temporary crown while your custom crown is made.
Final crown
Your permanent crown is checked for fit, bite and color, then cemented in place.
Caring for Crowns and Bridges
- Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth daily — including under a bridge with floss threaders or a water flosser.
- Avoid chewing ice, hard candy and other hard objects.
- If you grind or clench your teeth, ask about a custom night guard to protect your restorations.
- Keep up with regular checkups and cleanings so we can check the fit and the health of the tooth underneath.
Why Patients Choose Dr. Holcombe for Crowns, Bridges & Fillings
- Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from East Carolina University; undergraduate studies at North Carolina State University
- Active member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, North Carolina Dental Society and Buncombe County Dental Society
- A small, family-owned practice where you see the same dentist every visit, led by Dr. Holcombe since 2018
- Personal care and long-term relationships: we take the time to listen, answer questions and explain your options
Crowns, Bridges & Fillings: Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a dental crown last?
With good home care and regular checkups, a crown can last many years. How long depends on your bite, habits such as grinding, and how well the tooth and gums are cared for.
Does getting a crown hurt?
The tooth is numbed before it’s prepared, so most patients feel pressure rather than pain. It’s normal for the tooth to feel a little sensitive for a few days afterward.
Should I get a filling or a crown?
Small and medium cavities can usually be repaired with a filling. When a large part of the tooth is damaged or the tooth is cracked, a crown protects it better and helps prevent it from breaking.
How do I care for a temporary crown?
Chew on the other side when you can, avoid sticky and hard foods, and slide floss out to the side rather than pulling it up. Call us if your temporary comes loose.
Will insurance cover my crown?
Many dental plans cover part of the cost of crowns and bridges. We file all insurance for you, and we offer financing through CareCredit and Cherry. See our insurance and financing information.