A crown is a permanent covering that protects a damaged tooth. They are typically either gold or tooth colored. Bridges are used to replace a missing tooth or teeth. You need to have sturdy teeth on either side of the missing tooth space to act as an anchor for the bridge. These anchoring teeth are fitted with crowns which are bonded to the replacement tooth.

The process typically takes 2 appointments for crowns and bridges.

The first visit:

  1. The area is numbed and any decay is removed.
  2. Any missing tooth structure is replaced with a build-up material.
  3. The tooth or teeth are shaped to have crowns fitted.
  4. An impression is made of the shaped teeth.
  5. A temporary crown is made to fit over the prepped teeth.

The second visit:

The crown or bridge is adjusted to fit and then permanently cemented. Once the procedure is completed, proper dental hygiene, including daily brushing and flossing helps prevent new disease developing around the crowns. These restorations can last a lifetime with proper oral care. To learn more click here.

If you have any questions about dental crowns or dental bridges contact us today at (509) 966-0660.