A crown (or a cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface and allows it to be restore 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.
There are several types of crowns and we offer all of them in our practice. Porcelain and ceramic crowns (tooth colored) are the most popular, because they resemble your natural teeth. They are highly durable and will last many years. However, like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color of your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.
Reasons for crowns:
- Broken or fractured teeth
- Cosmetic enhancement
- Significantly decayed teeth
- Fractured fillings or prior restorations
- Previous root canal treatment
What does getting a crown involve?
A crown procedure can require one or two appointments. At our office, we offer the latest in dental technology and equipment. We employ Cerec CADCAM technology that permits your practice to fabricate most crowns in a single visit.
Single visit crown appointments permit our dentists to provide you with a crown the same quality as the dental labs, without the hassle of waiting two to three weeks in a temporary crown. While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and failing old filling. They will shape the surface to properly fit the crown and provide for long-term retention. Once these details are accomplished, a digital scan of your mouth will be obtained so our dental team can fabricate a beautiful, functional tooth. That process takes approximately 45 minutes and then the crown will be cemented on after checking for comfort, color and appropriate fit.
Two visit crowns involve the same steps as above for preparation of the tooth, but instead of a crown being made that day, a mold being taken at your first appointment. This 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. 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. Our post-operative care instructions are also provided here on our website for easy access.
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 our dental team will discuss the best options for your particular case. A bridge typically consists of 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
- Inability to receive a dental implant due to bone loss
What does getting a fixed bridge involve?
Receiving 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 is made digitally, which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge or individual abutment crowns will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment.
At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally we may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time.
You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Our post-operative care instructions are also provided here on our website for easy access. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.
