Services
Crowns & Bridges
Crowns & Bridges
Dental Crowns & Bridges
If a cavity or crack is too large and a filling will no longer help the tooth, a crown (or “cap”) can be used to give the tooth its strength back. During a crown procedure, the decayed and weakened tooth structure is removed. Digital impressions are then taken and a crown is made to fit over the tooth “preparation”. Once cemented, the crown is like a sturdy cover that makes your tooth look and work like new again.
A bridge is like a crown, but is used to replace one or more missing teeth. During a bridge procedure, the teeth on both sides of the missing tooth are modified and digital impressions are taken. The empty space is then filled with a fake tooth (or “pontic”) that is attached to a crown on both sides of the space. The crowns anchor the bridge, while the pontic fills in the missing space. Just like a crown, bridges are cemented into place and strengthen all of the included teeth.
What to Expect During Your Dental Crown or Bridge Appointment
Visit #1
1. Numbing: An anesthetic is administered to numb the area around your teeth.
2. Decay Removal and Build-Up: Dr. Lewis removes any decay (if present) and builds up the tooth (as needed) with filling material – this is done in cases where we need more structure to bond to your crown or bridge.
3. Tooth Preparation: Dr. Lewis shapes your tooth/teeth to fit the future crown or bridge.
4. Digital Scan: High-resolution scans are taken to make the crown or bridge.
5. Temporary Restoration: We make you a temporary crown or bridge to fill the space while the final product is being made.
Visit #2
1. Remove Temporary Crown
2. Try-In: We will try in the crown or bridge and take an X-ray to ensure a proper fit.
3. Cementation: Your crown or bridge is cemented into place.
4. Adjustment: Adjustments are made to achieve a comfortable bite.
