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.
Same-Day Crowns & Bridges
Most dental offices will require two visits for a single crown procedure (“prepare” the tooth in the first visit; cement it in the second). At Lake City Dental, we have the option to make the crowns in the office and cement them on the same day with our advanced equipment and technology. These crowns are just as strong and effective as lab-made, but require only half the time.
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.
