Crowns & Bridges

Crowns 

Dental crowns are like caps that are placed on top of a dental implant or a damaged tooth. They treat broken or damaged teeth and bring back their normal functionality and look. When cavities are so large that treating them with filling material is not efficient, crowns can work as an alternative. Crowns are made from various materials, such as metal alloys, porcelain, and tooth-colored composite resin. Crowns fit perfectly and blend to the color of your teeth, looking natural. 

Bridges 

Dental bridges are a combination of two or more crowns which is usually placed over dental implants on both sides of missing teeth. A dental bridge joins the gap between teeth and is supported by natural teeth, or anchors, on either side. Bridges are used when multiple teeth go missing. They are made of porcelain, alloys, or porcelain fused with metals to give a natural look. They are of four types: traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported.

How Do Crowns Work? 

Anesthesia is given before the procedure to numb the pain. After this, the dentist removes the damaged pulp and cleans the cavity thoroughly. Measurements are taken, and the digital molds are sent to dental labs. In the meantime, a temporary crown is placed on your teeth to prevent infections.   After two weeks, the temporary crown is replaced with the permanent crown using dental cement in the follow-up appointment. The fit and color are checked for, and necessary adjustments are made. 

How Do Bridges Function? 

Local anesthesia is given to reduce the pain during the procedure. If your teeth require root canal treatment, it is performed, and measurements are taken. The impressions are sent to the dental lab to prepare your customized set of bridges. A temporary bridge is placed over your teeth in the meantime to prevent roots from further getting affected.   After about two weeks, the permanent bridge is anchored to the healthy teeth at both sides of the gap. The fit and color are checked for, and adjustments are made.

Taking Care of Crowns and Bridges 

*Brush your teeth with a small amount of toothpaste twice daily to get rid of any plaque  *Floss to ensure no food remains between the teeth and initiate infections 

*Avoid chewing on hard substances like pens and nails 

*Do not eat excessive hot or cold food or drinks 

*Do not consume sticky and sugary foods 

Please reach out to our dental practice in Bakersfield, CA, to have a consultation with our dentist, Dr. Warren Barr. Please call us at (661) 834-9900 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.