Over
time our teeth begin to weaken and become more susceptible to problems such as
decay, cracks, discoloration and others. If you feel your smile isn't what it
once was, crowns can help you recover your smile. If your dentist notices that a
tooth is decayed or seems weakened/cracked a crown may be necessary to make sure
that there are no additional problems with the tooth. In cases like this a
filling or bonding will not be sufficient.
Crowns can be made from porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or a full gold
crown. To maintain a natural look and feel a porcelain finished crown is best,
as it can be matched to the shade of your other teeth. This will allow it to
blend in and appear just like one of your natural teeth.
The process of installing a crown takes 2-3 visits to the dentist. On the first
visit the tooth will be reshaped by filing down the enamel so that the crown can
be placed over it. You will be given a local anesthetic before this part of the
procedure so that you do not experience any discomfort. Once the tooth has been
reshaped, a mold will be taken of that tooth and the surrounding teeth. This
mold will be sent to a dental lab so that your new crown can be made so that it
fits in the spot created for it and looks the same relative to the surrounding
teeth. Before leaving, your dentist will fit you with a temporary crown until
your permanent crown is ready.
The crown takes about 2-3 weeks to be returned to your dentist. At this time you
will have another appointment to place and fit the permanent crown. You will
again have a local anesthetic to numb the area and the tooth will be placed
using a cement to ensure the tooth sets in place. When you look in the mirror,
you will see your old smile back. Crowns are durable and will usually last about
10-15 years. You should care for it as you would any of your other teeth with
regular brushing and flossing. Call us today if you would like to learn more
about how crowns can help restore your smile.
Dental bridges are a great way to replace missing teeth. Your existing teeth are
used to literally create a bridge to cross the area where your tooth is missing.
Bridges are made from gold, metal, alloys, or porcelain to ensure that they are
strong and durable.
The process of creating a bridge begins by creating abutments out of your
existing teeth where the bridge will be attached. The existing teeth are
recontoured to provide a base for the bridge. After the abutments have been
created, a mold is taken of the area which is sent to a dental lab. The lab is
able to use the mold to create a bridge that will fit properly and feel as close
to your natural teeth as possible. The bridge consists of two crowns on either
end to place on the abutments and a pontic, which is the new tooth that replaces
your missing tooth.
We will fit you with a temporary bridge while we wait for the lab to craft your
permanent bridge. This will protect the abutments and the exposed gum areas and
look more appealing than having a missing tooth. When the permanent bridge has
been created, you will have a follow up visit to set the bridge. It will be
placed on the abutments and the dentist will then use an adhesive to make sure
that the bridge is set.
The bridge may take a little while to get used to, but after a few days it
should feel like you have your own teeth back again. You should eat soft foods
for the first few days after having your bridge placed. After the initial phase,
you will be able to eat whatever you want with no issues.
If you are missing a tooth you should strongly consider having it replaced.
Besides the aesthetic disadvantage of missing a tooth, it could also cause
structural changes to your mouth and jaw, as well as making it difficult to eat
or speak properly. Set up an appointment today to restore your smile.
Contact us for more information about Crowns and Bridges.
