Dental Crowns and Bridges – Plano, TX

Your teeth can last for a lifetime, but it’s not uncommon for someone to experience a damaged or missing tooth. You don’t need to live with a less than perfect smile. We can restore a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile using crowns and bridges. Your dentist in Plano will create the perfect restoration to rebuild or replace a compromised tooth.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that’s bonded over the entire visible surface of a tooth to the gum line. It’s versatile because it can be used to treat several issues to preserve the integrity of a tooth. Not only will it improve its health, but it can also enhance the tooth’s aesthetics and function.

When Will I Need a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is one of the most common treatments in restorative dentistry; however, it’s only recommended under certain circumstances. You might need a crown to:

• Treat a large area of decay
• Fix a significant break or fracture
• Protect a weakened tooth from breaking
• Along with a root canal
• To support a bridge
• Along with a dental implant

What are Fixed Bridges?

A bridge is the most conventional solution to replace one or more missing teeth in a row. It creates the portions of your teeth visible above the gum line. It’s most commonly held in place by bonding dental crowns to the adjacent teeth; however, dental implants can also be used to support it.

How are Crowns & Bridges Placed?

After an initial consultation, you’re scheduled for your procedure, which will take a couple of appointments to complete. We’ll prepare your tooth for a crown by reshaping it to allow your restoration to be bonded over the top. We’ll take an impression of your mouth to get the exact measurements necessary to create your crown. It can take the dental lab a couple of weeks to make it. In the meantime, we may attach a temporary crown. After your permanent one is ready, you’ll return to our office to have it bonded in place.

If you need a bridge, we’ll also take an impression to recreate your teeth from all-ceramic material. The dental lab will ensure it meets your exact color, size, and shape needs to blend in with your natural teeth. You can chew, speak, and smile confidently knowing your new teeth look real.

How Do I Care for My Restorations?

Bridges and crowns typically last for about 10 years before needing to be replaced; however, it’s not uncommon for them to last much longer with the right aftercare. You can help ensure your new smile lasts by:

• Brushing your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste.
• Cleaning all surfaces of your teeth for at least two minutes.
• Don’t use your teeth as tools or chew on inedible objects.
• Don’t chew overly hard or sticky foods with your restoration.
• Visiting your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.

You can enjoy a beautiful smile again with a crown or bridge. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.