Crowns and bridges are cosmetic restorations that are used to cover a tooth that has broken or is likely to break . If you have chipped, decayed or damaged teeth, a dental crown can be used to seal and protect them from further damage. If you have missing teeth, a dental bridge literally ‘bridges’ the space between your remaining teeth. They are a permanent restorative option and also stop your teeth from moving out of their proper position over time.

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A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size.  A crown protects and strengthens 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, because they resemble your natural teeth.  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.

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Reasons for crowns:
 

•  Broken or fractured teeth.

•  Cosmetic enhancement.

•  Decayed teeth.

•  Fractured fillings.

•  Large fillings.

•  Tooth has a root canal treatment.

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What does getting a crown involve?
 

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments.  Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown.  A mold will also be used 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.

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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.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 is usually made of porcelain fused to metal.  Porcelain bridges are most popular because they resemble your natural teeth. This type of bridge consists of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth and are attached to pontics, 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.

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Reasons for a bridge:

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•  Fill space of missing teeth.

•  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 restoration.
   

What does getting a 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 enamel to allow for a crown.  Next, a highly accurate impression (mould) 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 8 days until your next appointment.

At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit.  

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You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment.  Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.