What Is Crown And Bridge Treatment?

Crown and bridge treatment is a long-term method of replacing missing teeth. A crown is placed over an individual tooth, (somewhat like a thimble over your finger) where there is no longer sufficient tooth structure left to place a filling. A bridge spans a space where one or more teeth have been lost in the dental arch. The teeth on either end of the span are crowned, and are referred to as abutments. The false teeth in a bridge that join the abutments are referred to as pontics. Crowns and bridges are most often made from superior materials such as precious metals (gold), semiprecious metals, porcelain, or a combination of metal fused to porcelain. Both esthetics (appearance) and function are considered when selecting the material most suitable for you.

Why Replace Missing Teeth?

Losing a tooth can be of social and psychological concern. Teeth are lost for a number of reasons including: dental decay, periodontal (gum) disease and trauma (injury or accident). When a permanent tooth is lost, the neighboring teeth are affected. Because the support and chewing forces are altered, the remaining teeth will begin to shift. The tooth above or below the one that was lost will begin to move up and out of its socket. Additionally, the teeth adjacent to the one that was lost will start to tilt into the space. This accelerates periodontal (gum) disease and causes further breakdown in the dental arch. If the missing tooth is not replaced, more teeth will eventually be lost, due to the improper forces exerted during chewing. We will make every effort to ensure your comfort during crown and bridge treatment.

How Is Treatment Performed?

At the first appointment a thorough oral examination, evaluation of your dental history and necessary X-rays are completed. The diagnosis is based on these three factors. Once it has been determined that crown and bridge treatment is indicated, you will be set up with a series of appointments. It's important that you keep all of these appointments. You see, your treatment occurs in a planned sequence. Missing or postponing your appointment may cause treatment delays, allowing further tooth movement before treatment can be completed.

What Will Happen?

The tooth or teeth to be treated are numbed with an anesthetic. You can expect the lip and cheek in that area to feel numb, as well. In addition, if it is a lower tooth or teeth to be treated, your tongue on that side will also feel numb. Next, during the preparation phase, your tooth or teeth to be crowned are trimmed down. This allows sufficient space for the crown or bridge to fit. After this preparation stage has been completed, an impression of that area of your mouth is taken. Modern impression materials make it possible to take an extremely accurate record (impression) and thus make the best possible restoration for your mouth. 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 we consider include: esthetics - color match and appearance · function - chewing and biting accuracy · tissue compatibility - the contour of the prosthesis must allow the surrounding tissue to conform to a natural, healthy position.

Replacing Missing Teeth:

Replacing missing teeth helps restore and maintain the natural bite, prevents unnatural stress on other teeth · helps keep opposing teeth in their proper place, prevents shifting and lifting of adjacent teeth, helps prevent further dental decay and periodontal (gum) disease and maximizes your smile, speech and chewing

A Final Word on crowns...

Throughout your crown and bridge treatment you may have questions or concerns not covered in this website. We will make every effort to ensure your comfort during crown and bridge treatment and we're 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.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Veneers, usually customized from porcelain, are a thin, semi-translucent "shell", permanently bonded to your teeth. While they're not suitable for every patient, veneers are a cosmetic alternative for a variety of dental conditions of the front teeth, including: · diastemas (spaces between the teeth) · broken or chipped teeth · unsightly, stained or washed out fillings · permanently stained or discolored teeth · misshapen or crooked teeth

Advantages And Benefits Of Veneers

At one time, resin fillings or crowns were the only available treatment for these conditions. Today, a third alternative is available. There are many benefits and advantages to having porcelain veneers placed on your front teeth. The advantages of veneers may include the following considerations: only a small amount of tooth structure (if any) is removed during the procedure · a healthy "natural" look is achieved with little or no discomfort.

How Are Veneers Different From Fillings Or Crowns?

A composite resin filling may be used when only a small amount of tooth structure needs replacement. A porcelain veneer is indicated when a portion of the front surface of the tooth needs a "face lift." A full crown is indicated when a tooth has had root canal treatment, or when a substantial amount of the entire tooth structure (enamel) has been lost.

How Are Porcelain Veneers Done?

Similar to a resin bonding procedure, veneers are attached directly to the existing tooth structure. An impression will be taken to make an exact replica of your teeth. During your veneering appointment, your teeth will be etched with a mild acid solution. When the veneers are applied, a tooth-colored liquid bonding material is applied. This helps the veneers adhere to your natural teeth. Even a subtle change in your smile can make an exceptional difference in the way you look and feel..

What To Expect?

Veneers can last for years, depending on how well they are taken care of by the patient. It is important to note that oral habits such as nail biting, opening bobby pins and chewing on hard objects could damage your new veneers. Because veneers are stronger than simple bonding, they are also more resistant to stains and chipping. You must maintain regular oral hygiene at home, and visit us for routine cleanings and exams. This is to ensure that your new veneers continue tolook as good as new.

A Final Word...

The decision to enhance your smile with porcelain veneers is a very personal one. Even a subtle change in your smile can make an exceptional difference in the way you look and feel - and on your social outlook. When you feel good, you look great. And that helps you project an image of self-confidence and high personal esteem. If you have any further questions about porcelain veneers, please ask us. Your smile is our business.