Are Dental Crowns and Bridges Right for You? Find Out in San Diego, CA
At Pearls of Dentistry in San Diego, CA, Drs. Lynne Thomas and Juergen Langenbach understand the importance of maintaining a stable bite, which promotes a healthy, beautiful smile. Dental crowns and bridges are two very effective treatment options available for restoring teeth that have been damaged or lost. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked or missing tooth in San Diego, California, crowns and bridges can offer a long-lasting solution. But how do you know if these treatments are the right option for you? Read on to find out!
What are dental crowns and bridges?
A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to reinforce the tooth’s strength and function. Crowns are typically recommended for teeth that are severely damaged from wear, cracks, or large fillings. A dental bridge, on the other hand, is designed to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of a false tooth (pontic) supported or connected by crowns placed on the neighboring teeth. Both crowns and bridges are custom-crafted to blend perfectly with your natural teeth, ensuring a smooth and aesthetically pleasing outcome.
Why would I need a dental crown or bridge?
Dental crowns are ideal for restoring teeth that are badly damaged from decay, cracks, or weakened by large fillings. If you have a tooth that has been structurally compromised by trauma or decay, a crown can help protect it and restore its functionality. A dental bridge is necessary when you have one or more missing teeth. Without a bridge, your remaining teeth may shift, leading to further dental issues such as food impaction, breakage of teeth, and/or bone loss of the remaining teeth. Bridges restore your bite’s function and preserve your smile by preventing the surrounding teeth from drifting out of position, potentially changing your smile.
How are bridges and crowns positioned in dentistry?
The process for placing dental crowns is completed in one visit using CEREC technology, bridges generally take two visits. During your first visit, your dentist will prepare the affected tooth or teeth by removing any decay or damage. Digital impressions will be taken to create a custom crown or bridge that fits your mouth perfectly. Your dental provider will select a porcelain material based on the strength and aesthetics required for the impacted area. Crowns will be delivered in that first appointment. A temporary bridge will be placed while your bridge is being fabricated. During the second visit, your permanent bridge will be placed, adjusted, and cemented into place.
Are dental crowns and bridges painful?
The placement of dental crowns and bridges is a relatively comfortable procedure. Local anesthesia is painlessly administered to numb the affected area, ensuring that you don’t feel any pain during the treatment. Mild sensitivity or discomfort may follow for some people, but this usually goes away in a few days. We strive to ensure that our patients are as comfortable as possible throughout their procedures at our office.
What are the benefits of dental crowns and bridges?
The following are some advantages of dental crowns and bridges:
- Restoration of Function: Crowns and bridges help restore the natural function of your teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile confidently.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Both crowns and bridges are designed to match your teeth’ natural color and shape, giving you a beautiful and seamless smile.
- Durability: These treatments are long-lasting and designed to withstand normal wear and tear during daily use.
- Prevention of Further Damage: While crowns shield decayed teeth from future damage, bridges stop neighboring teeth from shifting and creating additional problems.
Learn More Today!
If you’re living in San Diego, CA, and are considering a dental crown or bridge, Pearls of Dentistry in San Diego, CA, is here to help you make an informed decision. Our experienced team will assess your dental needs and help you determine the best treatment for your smile. Call us today at (858) 451-3110 to schedule your consultation with Drs. Lynne Thomas and Juergen Langenbach, take the first step toward restoring your smile!
