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At Vancouver Pacific Emergency Dentist,
we provide dental crowns and bridges for patients throughout the Vancouver Washington area.
These procedures are extremely effective for restoring a tooth that has become infected, damaged, or has fallen out.
What are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a cap that surrounds the tooth. Vancouver Pacific Emergency Dentist will typically use a crown to restore a tooth that has been damaged, but it can also be used for cosmetic purposes in order to improve the appearance of a smile. A crown can be made in three different materials, all-metal, ceramic-on-metal, and all-ceramic. Where the crown is located will determine the best material to use. For example, front teeth should have an all-ceramic crown, if possible, since it looks the most natural. Patients will often use ceramic-on-metal crowns since they look natural but have the durability that only metal can provide.
A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.
Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth-colored crown) is the most popular, because they resemble your natural teeth. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color of your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.
Reasons for Crowns
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Broken or fractured teeth.
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Cosmetic enhancement.
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Decayed teeth.
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Fractured fillings.
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Large fillings.
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The tooth has a root canal.
What Does Getting a Crown Involve?
A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.
While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.
At your second appointment, your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate. You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.
What are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a way to replace a missing tooth. At Vancouver Pacific Emergency Dentist, we provide clients with dental bridges if they want to replace a tooth without wearing dentures or undergoing surgery. The new tooth is held in place by two crowns. It looks natural and is made out of a ceramic or porcelain material to match the surrounding teeth. As experienced cosmetic dentists, We make sure that the new tooth looks and feels amazing.
There are several types of bridges. You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case. The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused with metal. Porcelain fixed bridges are most popular because they resemble your natural teeth. This type of bridge consists of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.
Reasons for a Fixed Bridge
Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years; however, they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear. Reasons for a fixed bridge:
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Fill the space of missing teeth.
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Maintain facial shape.
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Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
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Restore chewing and speaking ability.
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Restore your smile.
What does getting a fixed bridge involve?
Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment.
At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time. You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.
Have Any Questions?
We are happy to hear from you, answer your questions, and schedule an appointment. Call Vancouver Pacific Emergency Dentist at 360-546-1106 or stop by our office.