~Crowns and
Bridges~

A crown can help in the following ways:

*Replace a large filling when there isn't enough tooth
*Protect a weak tooth from fracturing
*Restore a fractured tooth
*Attach a bridge
*Cover a dental implant
*Cover a discolored or poorly shaped tooth
*Cover a tooth that has had root canal treatment
A crown has a tooth-like shape and structure for function. It fits over a portion of
you existing tooth or implant.  Porcelain or ceramic crowns can be matched to the
color of your natural teeth. Crowns can be made out of different types of materials
they are: gold and metal alloys, acrylic, porcelain and ceramic. Alloys are generally
stronger than porcelain and may be recommended for back teeth. Porcelain bonded
to a metal shell is often used because it is both strong and attractive.
On your first appointment they will first take an impression of your tooth, this
will be used to make the temporary crown or bridge.  The Dr. will then do a
preparation of the tooth or teeth  by grinding it down to make room for the
crown or bridge to fit on the top of it.  You will need to make a choice of what
you want your crown or bridge to look like.  If porcelain is to be used, we will
determine the correct shade for the crown or bridge to match the color of your
existing teeth.  We then take another impression of the prepared tooth or teeth.  
Using this impression, a dental lab then makes your crown or bridge, in the
material you specify. A temporary crown or bridge will be put in place to cover
the prepared tooth or teeth while the permanent crown or bridge is being made.
In about 2 to 3 weeks, when the permanent crown or bridge is ready, you will
come back for a second appointment.  The temporary crown or bridge is
removed, and the new crown or bridge is permanently cemented over your
prepared tooth or teeth.
A bridge may be recommended if you're missing one
or more teeth. Gaps left by missing teeth can
eventually cause the remaining teeth to rotate or shift
into the empty spaces.  This can cause a bad bite
and/or crooked teeth. The imbalance caused by
missing teeth can also lead to gum disease and
temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Crowns
Bridges
Advanced Dental Care