Dental Crowns & Bridges in Rapid City & Spearfish, SD

Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a custom-made restoration placed over a damaged tooth to restore its strength and protect it from further breakdown. Dr. Garner says crowns are one of his favorite procedures — he loves seeing how a tooth that looks like it’s beyond saving comes back looking and functioning beautifully.

Crowns are commonly recommended when a large portion of the tooth is compromised by decay or fracture, when a crack threatens structural integrity, when a filling alone wouldn’t provide enough long-term support, or after a root canal has been completed. Modern porcelain crowns are shade-matched to blend naturally with your surrounding teeth.

The process typically takes two visits. At the first, we remove decay, shape the tooth, and take a digital scan using our iTero scanner. A temporary crown protects you while the custom porcelain is fabricated. At the second visit, we bond the permanent crown and fine-tune your bite. Nitrous oxide is available at either appointment.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. The anchor teeth are prepared for crowns, and a custom replacement tooth fills the space between them — all cemented permanently as a single unit.

Bridges restore chewing function, prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, and maintain facial structure. For patients who want a fixed solution without the surgical component of an implant , a bridge is a reliable and proven option. The process mirrors crowns — two visits, digital scanning, and a temporary while the lab crafts your permanent restoration.

Crown or Bridge? Repair or Replace?

If the tooth can be saved, a crown reinforces it. If it’s already gone, a bridge or implant fills the gap. We evaluate remaining healthy structure, bone support, bite alignment, and your long-term prognosis before making a recommendation. Whenever possible, we preserve natural teeth. When replacement offers better stability, we explain why clearly and walk you through your options.

How much do dental crowns cost in Rapid City, SD?

Costs vary depending on the tooth’s location and the materials used. Most dental insurance plans partially cover crowns when medically necessary. Financing through CareCredit is available, and patients on our in-house dental savings plan receive a discount. We provide a clear estimate before any work begins.

Are dental crowns and bridges painful?

Both procedures are completed under local anesthesia, so you stay comfortable throughout. You may feel pressure during preparation, but not pain. Mild soreness afterward is normal and typically resolves within a day or two. Most patients tell us the anticipation was worse than the actual experience.

How long do crowns and bridges last?

With proper care, crowns and bridges often last 10–15 years or longer. Longevity depends on bite habits, oral hygiene, and whether you grind or clench at night. If grinding is a factor, a custom night guard can protect your restorations. Regular checkups help us monitor wear and catch issues early.

Is a bridge or an implant better for a missing tooth?

It depends on your situation. A bridge uses neighboring teeth for support and doesn’t require surgery — it’s strong and reliable, especially when anchor teeth already need crowns. An implant replaces the root independently and preserves bone long-term. We evaluate both options honestly and help you decide what fits.

What happens if I delay getting a crown?

A weakened tooth is at higher risk of fracture with every meal. What could be a straightforward crown today may turn into a root canal, extraction, or implant later if the tooth breaks further. Early treatment almost always means a simpler, less expensive fix.

Can old crowns be replaced?

Yes. Crowns that are failing, worn, or no longer fitting properly can and should be replaced to protect the tooth underneath. If you notice sensitivity, a rough edge, or something that feels off about an existing crown, let us know.