Dental Bridges & Crowns
 Restoration
Teeth Crown and tooth bridgework, also described as restorative dentistry, involves the restoration
of natural teeth that have been damaged, decayed or lost. Crowns and bridges can
correct missing teeth, bite dysfunction, and functional or structural problems.
A crown can restore an individual damaged tooth back to its original form and
function, while a bridge can replace one or more teeth. These restorations are
cemented onto the teeth and are referred to as "fixed" dentistry rather
than using a removable appliance or partial denture.
Dental Bridges
Dental Crowns
Dental Bridges
When one or more teeth are missing, the remaining teeth can drift out of position,
which can lead to a change in the bite, the loss of additional teeth, decay and
gum disease.
When tooth loss occurs, we may recommend the placement of a dental bridge. Designed
to replace missing teeth and support surrounding teeth, a bridge is a grouping
of interconnected crowns. Held in place by two crowns, a bridge can reduce the
risk of gum disease, help correct bite issues and even improve speech. If performed
by a well-trained cosmetic dentist, bridges are effective and durable and can
last an excess of 10 years.
How is a bridge constructed?
We begin bridgework by filing down the teeth to accommodate the crowns. Then we
will take impressions of the teeth, which will then be used to create the crowns.
We prepare and shape the teeth on each side of the space to receive crowns.
Then, we make an impression of the area. Once the crowns are finished, the false
tooth (or teeth) will be bonded to them. When the bridge is ready, a temporary
(or transitional) bridge is formed and fitted in the area. During your next visit
(usually a week later), the temporary bridge is removed and the permanent fixed
bridge is placed, adjusted and cemented into place.
Once the bridgework is permanently cemented, you may again enjoy your favorite
foods with confidence. Bridgework allows you to avoid that sunken-in appearance
caused by missing teeth and stabilizes that area of the dental arch to give you
a more youthful appearance, allowing you to smile once more with confidence.
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Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a prosthetic placed over an existing tooth to create a smoother, cleaner
look and enhance strength and durability. When a tooth is fractured, has an outdated
filling, or is severely damaged by decay, the placement of a dental crown may be recommended.
Crowns strengthen and protect the remaining tooth structure and can improve the
appearance of your smile. Types of dental crowns include the full porcelain crown, the
porcelain-fused-to-metal crown and the all-metal crown.
The crown restores the appearance of your teeth and can affect the muscles
in your face. A crown will be the same size and shape as the natural tooth. As
a result, it will keep your jaw and bite aligned; it will also make sure that
other teeth don't shift locations or take on a greater share of the work of biting
and chewing.
Dental Crown Technology
Today’s well-constructed crowns looks and functions just like natural teeth.
Dental crown technology has improved over the years, and older, less lifelike crowns
can be replaced with new ones. They are a great option when the damage or decay
is so extensive that filling materials cannot make the tooth strong enough. Crowns
are most often made of gold or porcelain but can also be made of stainless steel.
Porcelain crowns are carefully matched in color so they cannot be distinguished
from your natural teeth. Many people choose porcelain crowns for the cosmetic
appearance and the confidence it gives them. New materials are now available that
allow the use of "all-ceramic" crowns in some cases. Some people prefer
not to use gold because it stands out from the other teeth in appearance. At the
same time, if the crown is on a back molar, some people feel the cosmetic issue
is not a big one. We will discuss the types of materials available if a crown
is recommended.
Protect Your Crown
Once your dental crown is in place, make sure the area is brushed well and that you floss
below the gum line. While the crown protects your remaining tooth from further
decay, you must protect the base of the crown from bacterial growth and gum disease.
Regular brushing and flossing will ensure that your crown will be in place for
years to come.
We may recommend a dental crown if your tooth has enough decay that it cannot hold
a filling, or if your tooth is cracked or broken and in danger of cracking down
into the root if left unattended.
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If you are considering a crown or a bridge in St. Louis, please call or e-mail
our teeth crown & tooth bridges specialist today to schedule your initial tooth crown or tooth bridge consultation.
(314) 244-3751
Contact Us
8083 Manchester Rd.
St. Louis, MO 63144
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