Crowns And Bridges Specialist

When are Dental Crowns Used?

Dental crowns are protective covers that are designed to surround the tooth. Made of durable porcelain, a dental crown can be tinted to match surrounding teeth so it blends in and looks completely natural. Crowns have many different applications, but primarily, they’re used to:

• Hide dark metal fillings or deep discoloration that can’t be corrected with teeth whitening
• Strengthen a tooth that’s been treated with a root canal procedure
• Protect teeth used to support dental bridges
• Surround and protect badly damaged teeth, including fractured teeth and teeth with extensive decay

What Happens During a Crown Procedure?

Dental crowns require two office visits for application. During the first office visit, special tools are used to gently remove a small amount of the surface material from the tooth to make room for the crown, then an impression is made of the tooth and a temporary crown is applied to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being made. At the second visit, the temporary crown is removed from the tooth, and the permanent crown is applied using a strong bonding material.

When is a Dental Bridge Used?

A bridge is a dental device that’s used to replace one or more missing teeth. The bridge is composed of a strong framework that supports one or more artificial teeth. The framework attaches to the teeth on either side of the gap using dental adhesive or small clips that allow the bridge to be removed for easier cleaning and care. The teeth that support the bridge are covered with crowns to provide strength for the bridge and to prevent the natural teeth from becoming damaged. Bridges are a popular alternative to partial dentures.

How are Bridges Made and Applied?

A dental bridge requires two office visits. During the first visit, the supporting teeth are prepared for crowns, and impressions are made of these teeth and the gap between them and sent to a dental lab that specializes in crowns and bridges. Temporary crowns are placed on the teeth to protect them. At the second visit, the temporary crowns are removed, and the permanent crowns and bridge are put in place, then the bridge is adjusted so it fits securely and comfortably.