// Dental Crowns & Bridges
Dentistry Crowns and Bridges
Crowns
A crown is a cap used to cover the entire tooth to help restore it to its regular shape and size. This protects and strengthens the tooth when fillings or other restorations can’t be done. Highly durable, they can last for many years, only needing replacing after normal wear. Crowns are still subject to tooth decay. It’s important to have regular cleanings and check-ups to ensure that the crown is well maintained.
There are many different types of crowns available including full gold crowns, porcelain crowns, and metal covered with porcelain, zirconia, etc. Your dentist can help you determine which crown is best suited for your needs.
Why get a crown?
- You have broken or fractured teeth
- For cosmetic enhancement
- You have decayed teeth
- Your fillings are fractured
- You have/require large fillings
- You require a root canal
What does the crown procedure involve?
A crown will require at least two appointments. An appointment can include impressions, or molds, done to create your customized crown. A temporary crown will be placed to protect your tooth while your new crown is created. At Coast Dental Centre, we can provide digital impressions.
The following appointment, your temporary crown is removed and your tooth is cleaned. Your new crown will be placed and tested to ensure a proper fit and bite. Your dentist will provide proper care instructions and suggest regular visits to check on your new crown.
Bridges
Bridges are a fixed solution to replace missing teeth. Your dentist will help determine which of several bridge types are best suited for your needs. The most common, the traditional bridge, is made of porcelain fused to metal and consists of two crowns anchored to neighbouring teeth with an artificial tooth in-between. Dental bridges are durable and natural looking but may need to be re-cemented or replaced due to normal wear.
Why get a bridge?
- Fill space from missing tooth
- Maintain your facial shape
- Prevent current teeth from shifting into the gap
- Restore regular chewing and speaking
- Restore natural smile
- Upgrade from removable partial denture to a permanent solution
What does the bridge procedure involve?
A bridge will require two or more appointments. During your first appointment, your anchoring teeth are numbed and prepared by removing some enamel to make room for a crown. After an impression is made to create the new bridge, a temporary bridge is made and placed.
On your second appointment, your temporary bridge is removed and the new one placed. After checking and adjustment, your bridge is cemented. In some cases, your dentist may only temporarily cement it to allow your teeth to adjust.
You will receive proper care instructions from your dentist. Like your natural teeth, a bridge will need regular brushing and oral care for proper care. Book an appointment today if you think you may be a good candidate to receive a bridge.