Crown and bridge treatments are essential components of restorative dentistry, helping to restore damaged or missing teeth and improve both function and aesthetics in the mouth.
Understanding Crown and Bridge: What Are They and When Are They Used?
- Crowns: A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a custom-made restoration that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gumline. Crowns are used to strengthen and protect weak, damaged, or decayed teeth, restore broken or heavily worn teeth, and improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth. They are also commonly placed at the end of root canal therapy to provide additional support and protection for the treated tooth.
- Bridges: Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth by spanning the gap between adjacent teeth. A bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by crowns that are cemented to the teeth adjacent to the gap. Bridges restore the function of missing teeth, prevent shifting of surrounding teeth, and improve the appearance of the smile.
Materials and Digital Planning for Precision
Crowns and bridges can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of materials. Each material has its own advantages and is chosen based on factors such as durability, aesthetics, and the location of the restoration within the mouth.
At Earlwood Dental Care, we utilize advanced digital planning technology to design and fabricate crowns and bridges with precision and accuracy. Digital impressions and CAD/CAM technology allow us to create custom restorations that fit comfortably and seamlessly blend in with your natural teeth.
Treatment Process and Payment Plans
The process of getting a crown or bridge typically involves two appointments:
- Preparation Appointment: During the first appointment, the tooth or teeth receiving the crown or bridge are prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the restoration. Digital impressions or conventional impressions are then taken to create a mold of the prepared teeth, which is sent to a dental laboratory for fabrication of the custom restoration. A temporary crown or bridge may be placed to protect the prepared teeth while the final restoration is being made.
- Cementation Appointment: Once the final restoration is ready, usually within a few weeks, you’ll return to our office for the second appointment. The temporary crown or bridge is removed, and the permanent restoration is carefully placed, adjusted, and cemented into position to ensure a proper fit and bite.
At Earlwood Dental Care, we understand that dental treatment can be a significant investment. That’s why we offer flexible payment plans to help make crowns and bridges more affordable for our patients. Our team will work with you to find a payment solution that fits your budget and allows you to achieve the smile you deserve.
If you’re in need of a crown or bridge to restore your smile, schedule a consultation with Earlwood Dental Care today. Our experienced team will assess your needs, discuss your treatment options, and help you achieve a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile that you can be proud of.
