Crowns and bridges are a common technique for replacing missing teeth. A crown is a durable restoration that is designed to stand up to the pressures of chewing and biting. Once your final replacement crown is placed, you will be able to eat normally. However, while you’re wearing a temporary crown, you’ll have to take some precautions.
How a Crown is Placed
A dental crown is usually placed in two steps, which involves two separate trips to the dentist. In the first visit, you’ll have a mold made of your teeth, which will be used to construct your final crown. The dentist then makes modifications to the tooth that is to receive the crown. Material is taken away, making the tooth smaller and changing its shape so the crown will fit over it. Then a temporary crown is provided to protect the tooth. The final crown will take a few days to manufacture, and is usually made at an off-site lab.
The temporary crown is not as durable as the final crown. The adhesive used to hold it in place is also not as strong as that used on the final crown. So it’s possible for the temporary crown to be dislodged or even fall off. Our dentist will provide guidelines for taking care of it. Typically, you’ll be advised to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods, which could pull the crown free.
The Crown and Bridge
A crown and bridge uses one or two crowns to anchor one or more prosthetic teeth. The teeth adjacent to the gap are treated for crowns, then a special crown is manufactured that includes both crowns attached to a prosthetic tooth. The crowns are set on the teeth, and the prosthetic tooth fills the gap.
Crowns and bridges are often made of tooth-colored materials so you’ll have a natural look after your treatment. Porcelain or metal bonded with porcelain are common options. Be sure to discuss these options with our dentist.
Contact our friendly team at Fresh Dental today to make an appointment.
