Crowns and bridges are dental treatments designed to replace lost or repair extensively damaged teeth.
A tooth may require a crown when its structure is weakened. The crown functions as a protective cap that fully covers the tooth. Unlike dental fillings, which offer limited reinforcement, a crown provides rigid encapsulation, significantly strengthening the tooth. Crowns are particularly recommended for teeth with severe damage or following root canal treatment, as studies demonstrate that crowns extend the tooth’s longevity. Dental crowns can be made from various materials, including metal, porcelain, or a combination of both.
Several crowns can be joined to form a “bridge,” which replaces one or more missing teeth. Bridges may also be used to enhance aesthetics or conceal very dark teeth. For example, a bridge may consist of cast metal coated with porcelain to match surrounding teeth.
The crown-making process involves several steps. First, the tooth is reduced in size to accommodate the crown. Then, a temporary crown is placed on the same day to restore function and appearance. Next, precise impressions of the prepared tooth and opposing teeth are taken and sent to the dental laboratory for fabrication. When the custom crown returns, it is carefully fitted and, if satisfactory in fit and aesthetics, permanently cemented. Crowns typically last many years; usually, the underlying tooth fails before the crown.
If you notice pain, sensitivity, or soreness in a tooth do not ignore it. Schedule an examination , ask Dr. Kaufman a question or schedule an appointment online today