What is a crown?
A crown is a prosthetic tooth cap that’s permanently bonded to a preexisting root structure, like a dental implant or your natural tooth root. Once in place, a crown feels and functions just like a natural tooth.
Why would I need a crown?
Crowns have a number of functions, like:
- Restoring a severely damaged or decayed tooth
- Replacing a discolored, misshapen, or unsightly tooth
- Protecting a compromised tooth from further harm
Crowns are also used with dental implants to replace teeth that are missing entirely and are frequently put on a tooth following root canal treatment.
What is a bridge?
A bridge is a fixed oral appliance that replaces a missing tooth. It’s composed of a fake tooth, called a pontic, that’s held in place on either side by crowns. The crowns are affixed to the teeth on either side of your missing tooth, effectively creating a “bridge” between your teeth.
Why should I get a bridge?
Bridges fill in the holes where you’re missing teeth, which can:
- Improve the appearance of your smile
- Make it easier to properly speak and eat
- Prevent your teeth from falling out of alignment
- More evenly distribute your bite
A bridge also prevents your facial muscles from atrophying and sagging around your missing tooth, effectively maintaining the shape of your face.
What is the process of getting a crown or bridge?
First, Dr. Yoo prepares your abutment teeth by shaving off the enamel. If you’re getting a crown, he prepares the tooth that’s going to receive the crown. If you’re getting a bridge, he prepares the teeth on either side of your missing tooth.
Then, he takes an impression of your smile with either a dental putty or CBCT technology. Dr. Yoo offers CEREC® same-day crowns, so if you’re getting a crown, he uses that impression to mill your restoration on-site while you wait. Once your crown is ready, he checks the fit and bite, and then seals it to your prepared tooth.
If you’re getting a bridge, Dr. Yoo sends your impression to a lab for fabrication. You wear a temporary bridge while you wait for your permanent one to come back from the lab, at which point you come back to the office to have it permanently sealed in place.
If you’re anxious about your crown or bridge procedure, ask Dr. Yoo about sedation dentistry. He offers a wide range of sedative options to keep you comfortable during your treatment. Call the office or make an appointment online today.
