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What is a Crown?
A crown ("cap") is a laboratory fabricated restoration that is placed on a tooth (somewhat like a thimble over your finger) and is permanently cemented in place.
Why Place a Crown on a Tooth?
When the structural integrity of a tooth has been weakened, a full coverage crown or "cap" may be the recommended or "ideal" treatment. The tooth may be weakened most commonly by large old fillings, cracks, decay, root canal treatment and trauma. Generally, there is no longer sufficient tooth structure left to place a strong filling.
 What is a Crown and Bridge Treatment?
Crown and bridge treatment is a long term, permanent method of replacing missing teeth. A bridge spans a space where one or more teeth have been lost. The teeth on either end of the span are crowned and are referred to as abutments. The "fake" teeth in a bridge that join the abutments are referred to as pontics.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
Losing a tooth can be of social, psychological and functional concern. When a permanent tooth is lost, the neighboring teeth may be affected. Because the support and chewing forces are altered, the remaining teeth will begin to shift. The tooth above or below the one that is lost will begin to move out of its socket. This accelerates gum disease and causes further breakdown in the area. If the missing tooth is not replaced, more teeth may eventually be lost due to improper forces exerted during chewing. Of course, having a missing tooth near the front of the mouth causes many social and psychological concerns due to the diminished appearance of the person's smile. Missing teeth can also adversely affect a person's speech.
What are Crowns and Bridges Made of?
Crowns and bridges are most often made from superior materials such as precious metals (gold), all porcelain (tooth-colored) or porcelain fused to a metal base (tooth-colored). Both esthetics (appearance) and function are considered when selecting the material most suitable for each situation.
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Recent advances in dental technology have made new materials available for crown and bridge treatment! Completely metal free crowns and bridges have been developed for use in certain cases. Since metal can only be "concealed" to a certain extent, the esthetic results may be somewhat compromised. These new materials allow dentists to place a crown or bridge that looks like your natural teeth. Because of this, many of our patients are choosing metal-free restorations provided the clinical situation is suitable. Please ask us about your situation. Our dentists will be happy to discuss this alternative with you.
How is Treatment Performed?
Once it has been determined that crown and bridge treatment is necessary (after an oral examination and x-rays), you will be set up with a series of appointments. It is important that you keep all of these appointments. Your treatment occurs in a planned sequence. Missing or postponing your appointment may cause treatment delays and complications.
On the first visit, the tooth or teeth to be treated will be numbed with a strong anesthetic solution. Next, during the preparation phase, your tooth or teeth to be crowned will be trimmed down and shaped. This allows sufficient space for the crown or bridge to fit. After this preparation stage is completed, an impression of that area of your mouth is taken. Your teeth will be fitted with temporary crowns until your next appointment.
 At the following appointment, the crown or bridge is adjusted for proper fit prior to permanent placement. It is often necessary to fine trim and polish the new crown or bridge. Other factors that your dentist will consider at this time include the color match and appearance, the chewing and biting accuracy and how alignment with the gum tissue. When these meet your dentist's satisfaction, the crown or bridge is permanently cemented into place.
Advantages of Crown and Bridge Treatment
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One of the strongest and longest lasting procedures performed by dentists.
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Restores badly broken down teeth to maximize chewing
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Replaces missing teeth to prevent further damage, shifting and loss of other teeth.
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They look great! Maximizes your smile and speech.
We will make every effort to ensure your comfort during crown and bridge treatment. Our dentists are happy to answer any questions you may have. Our concern is your comfort and confidence. Our goal is to help preserve your smile for a lifetime.
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