Crown & Bridges FAQs
What are dental crowns & bridges?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is permanently cemented over a tooth, in order to restore the tooth's strength, shape and size, and improve its appearance. The crown will cover the visible portion of the tooth above and right at the gum line once it is cemented into place. Crowns are used to hold weak, broken or cracked teeth together to avoid further fracturing. Crowns are also used to support large fillings, attach a bridge, or cover discolored or deformed teeth. Crowns may also be placed over dental implants.
A dental bridge is a custom-made restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It works by "bridging" the gap where teeth are absent, using the healthy teeth on either side as anchors. These anchoring teeth, known as supporting teeth, are fitted with crowns that hold everything securely in place.
What is the process for getting a dental crown?
The dentist usually requires two dental visits to install a crown. First, the dentist needs to prepare the tooth or implant for the crown. The dentist will grind and shape the tooth so that the crown can be fitted over it. Then, the dentist makes an impression of the tooth and surrounding gums, which is then sent to a dental laboratory so that the crown can be created. The dentist fits a temporary crown over the tooth until the permanent crown is ready. During the second visit, the dentist will remove the temporary crown and cement the finished permanent crown onto the tooth.
What is the process for getting a dental bridge?
It normally takes two or more visits for your dentist to complete your bridge. On your first visit, the supporting teeth, which are typically the ones on either side of the missing tooth, are prepared. This is done to make room for the crowns that will slide over the supporting teeth. These crowns also serve as holders of the pontic, which is the missing tooth’s replacement. Next, an impression of the supporting teeth is made so a dental laboratory can custom fit the bridge. Finally, a temporary dental bridge is inserted to protect the supporting teeth as well as the space between them.
On your second visit, the permanent bridge is placed and adjusted to ensure proper fit and function. If the fit of the bridge is satisfactory, your dentist will proceed with permanently cementing the bridge into place.
After the successful completion of the bridge, you may feel some discomfort, mild pain when biting or sensitivity to temperature changes for a few days. As advised by your dentist, you can take over-the-counter pain medicine, such as Advil, which contains ibuprofen, to alleviate the discomfort. If these symptoms persist for more than a few days, visit your dentist.
How long do dental crowns & bridges last?
Crowns generally last about five to eight years, and with good oral hygiene, most crowns and bridges last longer. Certain habits, such as fingernail biting, chewing ice, and grinding teeth, can do damage to the crown or bridge and should be avoided.
The longevity of your dental bridge depends in large part on the quality of the material in the bridge, as well as your oral hygiene, diet and the health of the supporting teeth and gums. Please ask your dentist for proper brushing and flossing techniques.
