Get Your Smile Back with a Crown or Bridge
Understanding Dental Crowns and Bridges
Dental Crowns: Your Solution for Damaged Teeth
A dental crown is a cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are used to:
- Protect a weak tooth from breaking or to hold together parts of a cracked tooth.
- Restore an already broken tooth or a tooth that has been severely worn down.
- Cover and support a tooth with a large filling when there isn't a lot of tooth left.
- Hold a dental bridge in place.
- Cover misshaped or severely discolored teeth.
- Cover a dental implant.
Dental Bridges: Bridging the Gap
A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth, spanning the space where the teeth are missing. Bridges are cemented to the natural teeth or implants surrounding the empty space. These teeth, called abutments, serve as anchors for the bridge, while a replacement tooth, called a pontic, is attached to the crowns that cover the abutments.
Signs It's Time to Consider a Crown or Bridge
You may need a crown or a bridge if you experience:
- Visible Damage or Decay: Significant tooth decay or visible damage that cannot be repaired with a filling alone.
- Missing Teeth: Gaps left by missing teeth that affect your smile and bite.
- Tooth Weakness: Teeth that are weakened from injury or decay, posing a risk of further damage.
- Cosmetic Enhancement: Desire to improve the aesthetic appearance of your smile due to discolored, misshapen, or misaligned teeth.
The Process of Getting a Crown or Bridge
Consultation and Planning
Preparation
For a bridge, the abutment teeth are prepared by recontouring these teeth to receive the crowns that will support the bridge. Impressions are also made to provide the exact mold for the bridge.
Temporary Solutions
Final Fitting
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Implant Consult
Emergency Exam
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental crowns and bridges last?
With proper care, dental crowns and bridges can last 5-15 years, or even longer. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene can extend their longevity.
Are crowns and bridges noticeable?
Modern crowns and bridges are made to match the color, height, texture, and overall appearance of your teeth. They are usually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
Is the procedure painful?
Thanks to modern dental techniques and anesthesia, getting a crown or bridge is usually a pain-free process. Some sensitivity or discomfort may be experienced after the procedure, but it typically subsides quickly.
Will my insurance cover the cost of crowns and bridges?
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of crowns and bridges. Our office staff can help you understand your benefits and provide an estimate of what your insurance will cover.
How do I care for my crown or bridge?
Treat your crown or bridge as you would your natural teeth, with regular brushing and flossing. Avoid chewing hard foods or ice to prevent damage.