subject: What You Need To Know About Dental Bridges And Crowns [print this page] Chances are, at some point in your life you will find yourself in a situation where you need some sort of dental restoration. Whether you have a cracked or broken tooth or you had an entire tooth knocked out, your dentist has the capability to fully restore your broken smile. Some of the most common tools he or she will use to do so are dental crowns or dental bridges. If you find yourself in need of a tooth restoration, don't hesitate to talk to your Pembroke Pines dentist about dental crowns or bridges.
Dental Crowns
A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is directly installed on top of a tooth to improve its size, strength, shape and/or appearance. To put a crown in, your dentist will begin by anesthetizing the area. After this, he or she will reduce the tooth that will receive the crown. This will allow for there to be enough room for your crown to fit comfortably in your mouth. An impression is then taken of the area in order to create a crown that will fit in perfectly with the rest of your teeth. This impression is then sent to a dental lab, where it will usually take between two and three weeks to create your permanent crown. In between appointments, your dentist will provide you with a temporary crown to wear so that you do not have a gap in your teeth.
Once your permanent crown arrives, your dentist will do a final check to make sure that the fit and coloring are perfectly correct. If they are, he or she will then permanently cement the crown into place to complete the procedure. Once your crown is put in, it will both function and act like one of your normal teeth.
Dental Bridges
While a dental crown is used to restore a tooth that has been cracked or chipped, a dental bridge is used to totally replace a tooth that has been lost. A bridge is an artificial replacement tooth that is held in place on either side by dental crowns. To install a bridge, your dentist will begin by anesthetizing the area. He or she will then reduce the two teeth that will receive crowns. After this, an impression is taken of the area. Just like in a crown procedure, this impression is then sent to a dental lab, where your permanent bridge is created. You will wear a replacement bridge in between your appointments. Once your permanent bridge arrives, your dentist will examine it and make any necessary adjustments. He will then permanently cement it into place. Your bridge will last for about 15 years or in some cases longer.
To learn more about dental crowns and bridges or to schedule an appointment, contact your Pembroke Pines dentist today.
