DENTAL CROWNS AND DENTAL BRIDGES

Why Do I Need to Get a Dental Crown/Bridge?

A permanent crown is a restoration that covers the entire chewing surface of a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury. The crown protects the tooth and restores its shape and appearance. Crowns are made out of different materials, depending on the desired look and function.

Types of Dental Crowns

There are many different types of dental crowns that are made from different materials. The most common type of dental crown is the Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) crown. These types of crowns are made from a metal shell that is covered with ceramic. Other types of dental crowns include all metal crowns, which are made from gold or another metal, and all ceramic crowns, which are made from porcelain.

• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): dental crowns are a popular choice for many patients. PFM crowns can be matched to the color of the adjacent teeth, making them a natural-looking option. PFM crowns are also strong and durable, and can last for many years with proper care. If you are considering a PFM crown, be sure to discuss your options with your dentist to make sure it is the right choice for you.

• All-ceramic or all-porcelain: If you’re considering a dental crown, you may be wondering what type of crown is best. All-ceramic and all-porcelain crowns provide the best natural color match compared to any other type of crown. They’re also less likely to cause allergic reactions in people with metal sensitivities. All-porcelain crowns are typically more fragile and not recommended for people who grind their teeth. However, there are all-ceramic crowns that are able to withstand grinding force and are, therefore, recommended.
  

What is a Dental Bridge?

If you are missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge may be a good option to fill the gap. A dental bridge usually consists of one or more false teeth, known as pontics, which are supported by crowns on either side. Missing teeth can have a number of consequences: the teeth adjacent to the empty space can start to overgrow and exert pressure on the adjoining teeth, causing wear and tear.

Teeth that have shifted toward the empty space can also make biting and chewing with natural teeth difficult. The bridge is cemented in place, unlike dentures, which are removable. The teeth on either side of the gap support and hold the bridge in place. 

How much do dental crowns cost?

Dental crowns are a common dental procedure that can be used to treat a variety of dental issues. While the cost of dental crowns can vary depending on the materials used and the dentist performing the procedure, the average cost of a dental crown is between $500 and $1,500.

The process in getting a dental crown

Before getting started on a dental crown procedure, Dr. Odufalu will take an impression of the teeth so that the new crown or bridge can be created in a dental lab. The tooth will be prepared for a dental crown by Dr. Odufalu. The enamel will need to be removed in order to make room for the new crown. 

Once this is done, the tooth will be cleaned and a temporary crown will be secured in place using removable dental cement. During the two-week period while wearing a temporary crown, it is important to be cautious with both your diet and how you brush your teeth, as the temporary crown is designed to come off.

Once the dental restoratives have been created by the lab, patients will come back to our Redlands dentist office to have the temporaries removed and the permanent ones bonded to the tooth. Once the crown is in place and bonded, the procedure is complete.

With a bridge, the crown is placed on the two teeth surrounding the missing one, with a piece that looks like natural gums holding the new tooth in place. Patients in the Redlands area rely on this procedure to replace missing teeth in a natural-looking and functional way. This synthetic “bridge” is anchored by two crowns, making the new tooth as durable as possible.

How Long Will My Dental Crown Last?

Dental crown covers the whole visible portion of a tooth. It is used to protect a tooth that is cracked, broken, or has had a large cavity. It can also be used to improve the appearance of a tooth that is misshapen or discolored. A crown can last many years, but eventually, it will need to be replaced.