Crowns and Bridges Specialist

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a type of restorative treatment that covers all visible surfaces of a natural tooth. An incredibly versatile restoration option, dental crowns can correct numerous issues.

Thanks to advancements in dental technology, today’s dental crowns are incredibly natural-looking. They’re also durable, giving you a great return on your investment. 

Most dental crowns are made of porcelain or ceramic. These materials create crowns that are indistinguishable from your natural teeth. Other options include those made of metal with a shell of porcelain or ceramic, which are both durable and attractive.  

Dental crowns can be used to:

• Protect a cracked or fractured tooth
• Improve the appearance of a misshapen tooth
• Cover a worn down tooth
• Improve discoloration
• Provide structural support to a tooth with a large filling

Dental crowns are also used to anchor dental bridges and are the visible portion of dental implants. 

What are dental bridges?

A dental bridge, also commonly referred to as bridgework, is a type of restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. Bridges are permanently affixed to the adjacent teeth using dental crowns.

Once in place, a dental bridge not only restores the appearance of your smile but also ensures you’re able to eat and speak normally. Closing the gap created by one or more missing teeth also provides the support needed to prevent adjacent teeth from shifting out of position. 

A dental bridge is a more affordable tooth replacement option than dental implants. However, it’s important to understand that even the best bridgework may eventually need to be replaced, so be sure to factor that in when comparing cost.

What is the process for getting crowns and bridges?

During the planning stage, advanced imaging provides information about your tooth and bone tissue. On the day of your procedure, an injection of numbing medication ensures you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. 

Your dentist removes a small portion of your tooth to make room for your new crown. Impressions are made to guide the fabrication of the custom crown. Next, a temporary crown is secured into place. 

When your new crown arrives from the lab, you return to have it checked for fit and appearance. Minor adjustments can be made before cementing the crown in place. 

For bridgework, the process is very similar, except two crowns are installed that hold one or more artificial teeth in place that sit against your gum tissue. 

If you’d like more information about crowns and bridges, call Meridian Dental Care or request an appointment online today.