crowns & bridges
about Crowns and Bridges
Picture a crown as a tooth-shaped cap that covers the entire tooth. A bridge is a fixed restoration that bridges the gap created by one or more missing teeth. A bridge is anchored in place by either natural teeth or implants.
Crowns and bridges can be made from porcelain, gold, metal alloys, or a combination of these materials.
Why is a Crown Needed?
Your doctor may suggest a crown for one of the following reasons:
- To protect a weak tooth, such as one that has had a large filling and a lot of the tooth structure is missing
- To restore a broken or severely worn tooth
- To protect a tooth after a root canal
- To correct cosmetic concerns, such as a misshapen or discolored tooth
- To anchor a bridge in place
- To cover a dental implant
What are the Advantages of a Bridge?
Bridges:
- Restore your smile
- Restore your ability to properly chew and speak
- Evenly distribute biting forces by replacing missing teeth
- Are fixed, meaning they do not have to be taken in and out
- Prevent remaining teeth from drifting
What to Expect When Getting a Crown or Bridge
- Your dentist will numb up the tooth and the surrounding tissue.
- A preliminary impression will be taken, and you will select the shade for your permanent crown.
- Your dentist will use a handpiece to remove any cavities or filling material in the tooth. A core buildup, which provide support for the crown may be place. The part of the outer portion of the tooth is removed to ensure the fit of the crown.
- A final impression of the tooth is taken and sent to the lab in order to fabricate the permanent crown.
- A temporary crown is made. You will have this crown until the permanent one comes back from the lab, which is a few weeks. Avoid any hard or sticky foods while you have the temporary crown.
- After the permanent crown comes back from the lab after a few weeks, it will be cemented onto the tooth.
