Crowns and Bridges

Crowns are strong, aesthetically pleasing covers placed over the base of the natural tooth to strengthen and protect the remaining tooth structure.

Bridges are multiple crowns linked together to replace on or more missing teeth.

During your first visit we will shape the tooth/teeth, take impressions, and place a comfortable protective temporary crown/bridge. The temporary crown/bridge is made of plastic that allows you to function normally; however to prevent the temporary from breaking or coming off, you should avoid eating hard and or sticky foods. If your temporary crown/bridge comes off, replace the temporary over the existing tooth/teeth using Fixodent. This should provide enough suction to adhere the temporary in place.

At your second visit, approximately two weeks later, the temporary crown/bridge is removed and the final restoration is cemented into place. After placement you may experience tenderness when biting/chewing. If this persists for longer than three days, call us. Often a simple adjustment will bring relief to your bite. For teeth that have not had root canal therapy mild sensitivity to hot and cold after the placement of the final restoration is normal. The size and location of the restoration influences how the tooth/teeth react. If you are having continuing sensitivity and pain to temperature and or bite, root canal therapy may be needed. The doctor will inform you of this possibility.

Crowns and bridges are long lasting; however, factors such as bite strength, check-up frequency, diet, genetics, and home care affect their longevity.