Crown & Bridge Treatment
Crown and bridge treatment is a common and effective method for restoring damaged or missing teeth. These dental prosthetics not only improve the appearance of your smile but also restore functionality, allowing you to eat and speak with confidence.
What are Crowns and Bridges?
- Crowns: Also known as caps, crowns are custom-made coverings placed over a tooth that is damaged, decayed, or weakened. They restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials.
- Bridges: A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth (pontics) anchored to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. The adjacent teeth, called abutments, are fitted with crowns to support the bridge.
Indications for Crown & Bridge Treatment
Crowns:
- To protect a weak tooth from breaking.
- To restore an already broken or severely worn down tooth.
- To cover and support a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t much tooth left.
- To hold a dental bridge in place.
- To cover misshaped or severely discolored teeth.
- To cover a dental implant.
- To cover a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment.
Bridges:
- To replace one or more missing teeth.
- To restore your smile.
- To restore your ability to chew and speak properly.
- To maintain the shape of your face.
- To prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
The Crown & Bridge Treatment Process
Consultation and Examination:
- A thorough examination is conducted, including X-rays and possibly impressions of your teeth to evaluate the condition and plan the treatment.
Tooth Preparation:
- For crowns, the affected tooth is shaped to make room for the crown. For bridges, the adjacent teeth are prepared by removing a portion of the enamel to accommodate the crowns.
Impression Taking:
- Impressions of the prepared tooth/teeth are taken to create a precise mold for the crown or bridge.
Temporary Crown/Bridge:
- A temporary crown or bridge is placed to protect the prepared tooth/teeth while the permanent prosthetic is being made.
Fitting the Permanent Crown/Bridge:
- Once the permanent crown or bridge is ready, it is checked for fit, color, and comfort. Adjustments are made as necessary before permanently cementing it in place.
Final Adjustments and Follow-Up:
- The dentist will ensure the crown or bridge fits perfectly and does not affect your bite. Follow-up visits may be scheduled to monitor the adaptation and functionality of the crown or bridge.
Benefits of Crown & Bridge Treatment
- Restored Functionality: Enables normal eating and speaking capabilities.
- Aesthetic Improvement: Enhances the appearance of your smile.
- Durability: High-quality materials ensure long-lasting restoration.
- Comfort: Custom-made to fit your mouth comfortably and naturally.
- Support: Prevents remaining teeth from shifting out of position.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care of your crown and bridge includes:
- Regular brushing and flossing.
- Routine dental check-ups.
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods that can damage the prosthetics.
- Using a night guard if you grind your teeth.
Contact Us
For more information about crown and bridge treatment or to schedule an appointment, please contact our office. Our experienced dental team is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care to restore and maintain your beautiful smile.