What is a crown?

A crown, sometimes called a “cap” is a tooth like covering placed over a prepared existing tooth. The tooth structure is carefully reduced, an impression is taken, a proper color shade is taken, and a temporary tooth is made while your impression is sent to the lab for construction. Crowns and bridges are most often made from superior materials such as semi-precious or precious metals, porcelain or a combination of metal fused to porcelain.

Both appearance and function are considered when selecting the right one for you. A second appointment is made to check the fit, contacts, bite and colour making sure it has the same characteristics as your natural teeth, before cementing it permanently.

What is a bridge?

A bridge is a custom device that is anchored to neighboring teeth that replaces one or more missing teeth. The teeth on either side is prepared like a crown to serve as abutments to hold the “new” teeth in place.

Why is a crown and or bridge treatment necessary?

Losing a tooth, or partial tooth structure, whether it be from dental decay ( a cavity), periodontal ( gum ) disease, root canal treated tooth, accident or injury can cause many serious problems for your other neighboring teeth. Because the support and chewing surfaces have been altered in the mouth, the remaining teeth may begin to shift, moving up or down and out of the socket creating further destruction, accelerating periodontal disease or loss of bone structure. If the missing tooth is not replaced more teeth may eventually be lost due to the improper forces exerted during chewing.

How do I care for my new crown or bridge?

Proper oral hygiene that includes flossing and brushing are the best ways to help keep your gums and teeth healthy. Our certified and trained staff will assist and show you how. Regular dental hygiene appointments are highly recommended for future success in your overall oral health.