Dental Crowns and Bridges Arlington, TX
Crowns and Bridges are used to restore and enhance teeth that are damaged, or to take the place of missing teeth when a implant is not elected. A crown, also referred to as a cap, is used to entirely cover a damaged tooth. A crown not only strengthens a tooth, but it can dramatically improve a tooth’s appearance, shape and alignment.
Crowns may be used to:
- Replace a large filling when there is little tooth structure remaining
- Protect a weak tooth from fracturing
- Restore a fractured or cracked tooth
- Attach a bridge
- Cover a dental implant
- Cover a discolored or poorly shaped tooth
- Cover a tooth that has had root canal treatment
Dental Bridges
A bridge is a good method to fill the space created by missing teeth. A bridge is one or more artificial teeth that are cemented into place using the teeth on either side for support, hence the name. This is an option for filling the space created by a missing tooth. A bridge replaces the missing tooth, both functionally and cosmetically. Bridge work is as much an art as it is an exact science. The materials used may be gold alloys, porcelain bonded to metal alloy, or all ceramic material made to match your natural tooth color. The choice of material depends on requirements for strength, wear, and/or esthetics.
It is important that a missing tooth be replaced as soon as possible for several reasons. If not treated the teeth surrounding the gap begin to shift inward. Since teeth use their neighbors for support, if one is missing they begin to “fall” and shift into the open spaces. This may worsen the bite due to changes in pressure and can eventually result in problems with the jaw such as TMJ.
How Are Crowns and Bridges Made?
Crowns and bridges are made by taking a digital scan of your mouth/tooth after Dr. Daggula has prepared the area. This new technology replaces the old impression techniques, and is actually more accurate, as well as more comfortable. The scan is then sent to a dental lab where your crown or bridge will be custom made to fit your mouth. A temporary crown or bridge will be placed into your mouth until your permanent crown or bridge is made. When the permanent crown or bridge is ready, it will be cemented into place.
Crowns and bridges are very durable and can last a lifetime with extra care and by practicing good oral hygiene and regular visits to see your Arlington dentist. We have seen many cases in our office of documented crowns lasting over 60 years. Special attention is needed in flossing underneath your bridge, so we will teach you how to do this and give you a special floss threader to be used.
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a restoration used to protect teeth that have been damaged by dental injuries or decay. Shaped like a tooth, a dental crown covers all tooth structure above the gingiva. Dental crowns are made from durable materials to prevent future damage and decay..
When is a dental crown recommended?
Your dentist may recommend a dental crown for a number of reasons. When used for restorative purposes, crowns protect weakened teeth from bacteria and enamel-damaging acid. They also restore a tooth to its proper size and shape. If a tooth has been chipped or cracked, a crown will treat this damage and protect the tooth from degrading further.
If used for cosmetic reasons, dental crowns can conceal imperfections such as noticeable tooth damage, permanent stains, and previous dental work like amalgam fillings. Dental crowns made from porcelain or porcelain fused to metal are ideal for enhancing the appearance of a smile.
Will my dental crown be visible?
Dental crowns made from metals like silver or gold are noticeable to others. If you desire a natural looking restoration, your dental crown could be made from tooth colored materials. When a crown is made from porcelain, for example, it is indistinguishable from biological tooth structure.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic used to replace missing teeth. This fixed prosthetic is made from a series of connected dental crowns. Each side of the bridge connects to existing teeth while the crowns of the bridge rest on top of the gums to fill in the gaps of a smile.
What does the dental bridge process include?
Since dental bridges are custom-made, the fabrication process takes a couple appointments. The first visit involves taking diagnostic images and photographs. These images will be used to determine the unique specifications needed to create a functional and comfortable prosthetic.
Once the specifications are determined, technicians in dental laboratories can begin the fabrication process. After this process is complete, a patient will return to her or her dentist for the placement and bonding of the prosthetic.
