Dental Crowns & Fixed Bridges
One of the most versatile dental restoration options, the dental crown, is a great solution to protect damaged teeth. A crown fits completely over the top of damaged or decayed teeth preserving the remaining tooth structure and preventing additional issues. The whole tooth is fortified and protected by the dental crown. A bridge, sometimes called a fixed bridge, is a replacement tooth fused to dental crowns. Each of the crowns is attached to a surrounding healthy tooth filling the gap in a patient’s smile with a natural looking and feeling restoration. If you’d like to find out more about crowns or bridges, read on or contact our dedicated Rowen Dentistry team to schedule an appointment.
What are Crowns & Bridges Made From?
We offer restorations crafted from a variety of materials. Each offers their own unique benefits, but many of our patients prefer porcelain crowns because they offer the most natural looking solution. These durable restorations can last for decades with proper care, especially for smaller, front teeth that don’t absorb as much pressure while chewing. For back teeth, we may recommend a stronger, less cosmetically appealing material like gold or porcelain fused to gold because these teeth must absorb a higher amount of impact each day.
Why do I need a Crown?
Patients may need a dental crown to restore the full shape and function of their smile for a number of different reasons including:
- Repairing chipped, cracked, broken, or fractured teeth
- Renewing full health following extensive decay
- Enhancing the appearance of teeth that are misshapen, discolored, or damaged
- Replacing damaged tooth fillings
- Protecting teeth following root canal treatment
Why do I need a Bridge?
Patients with one or a few consecutive missing teeth may consider a crown supported fixed bridge for a variety of reasons including:
- Replacing lost dental structure
- Maintaining the full, healthy shape of the face
- Preventing dental drift, the shifting of teeth out of alignment
- Protecting remaining teeth from unnecessary strain or damage caused by uneven bite pressure
What is the Dental Crown & Bridge Process Like?
Typically, the restoration process requires two to three treatment appointments. In some cases, patients will have an initial consultation before their treatment actually begins, but many patients complete the initial treatment phase on the same day we discover the area of concern. The first treatment appointment includes the preparation of the tooth, capturing of impressions, and placement of a temporary crown or bridge. During this process, your tooth and surrounding areas will be numbed with local anesthetic. The impression is sent to our trusted local dental lab where your final restoration is crafted. Once we receive the final crown or bridge, you’ll return to our office, and we’ll remove the temporary. Then, we place the custom restoration adjusting it as necessary to perfectly complete your bite.
How do I Care for a Crown or Bridge?
Dental crowns are cared for in much the same way that you should clean and maintain healthy natural teeth by brushing and flossing each day and visiting a dentist for twice a year checkups and cleanings. Fixed bridges may entail a little extra work. You’ll need to use a flosser to clean beneath the bridge between the replacement tooth and the gum tissue to remove plaque buildup and prevent potential gum disease. If you have questions or need help caring for your dental crown or bridge, don’t hesitate to ask the dentist or one of our team members. We’ll be happy to walk you through the best techniques before you leave our office.