Crowns and Bridges

 

 

Crowns (Caps)

A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface to protect and strengthen tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations. Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular. They are highly durable and will last many years. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth, giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.

 

Reasons for crowns:

• Broken or fractured teeth

• Cosmetic enhancement

• Decayed teeth

• Fractured fillings

• Large fillings

• Tooth that has root canal treatment

 

What does getting a crown involve?

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking an accurate mold (or impression) that will be used to create your custom crown.  A mold will also be taken to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.

 

While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown.  Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.

 

At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.

 

You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.

 

 

Fixed Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth.

There are several types of bridges. You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case.  The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type and consists to two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.

Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.

 

Reasons for a fixed bridge:

• Fill space of missing teeth

• Maintain facial shape

• Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position

• Restore chewing and speaking ability

• Restore your smile

• Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance

 

What does getting a fixed bridge involve?

Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits.  While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of tooth to allow for a crown.  Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated.  In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for 2-3 weeks until your next appointment.

 

At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of the procedure.  Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.