Crowns and bridges – rebuilding healthy, beautiful smiles
Thanks to the marvels of modern dental materials and technologies, dentists like Dr. Douglas B. Kersey, Jr. can repair severely compromised teeth so the results look like the “real deal.” Kersey Dental in LaGrange, Georgia, can often preserve the tooth and prevent its extraction with highly versatile dental crowns. If the tooth is “too far gone” and cannot be saved, Dr. Kersey may recommend dental bridges or other advanced tooth-replacement options.
Why would I need a crown?
A tooth may become compromised or weakened to the point where its structural integrity is threatened. This damage can occur as a result of a large cavity, worn or damaged filling, certain cracks or fractures, traumatic injuries, and severe decay. In fact, a crown is placed after root canal therapy to restore the tooth’s strength and prevent future infection and further damage that might lead to tooth loss. Crowns also play important roles in tooth replacement, as you’ll see below.
Are crowns just used to treat damage?
No. Crowns may also be a cosmetic dentistry procedure. For instance, you may have a very misshapen tooth that would not be a good candidate for other cosmetic treatments, like veneers or dental bonding. By placing a crown with a more aesthetically pleasing and uniform shape on top of the tooth, we create a more balanced and attractive-looking smile.
How exactly does a crown “work”?
Your teeth have natural crowns, the white visible part of the tooth that is above the gums. Dental labs can shape materials like porcelain and zirconia to look just like natural teeth. This artificial crown may then be placed over the natural tooth. Once secured, the dental crown strengthens and restores the damaged tooth or achieves a more cosmetic result for those patients who have elected to undergo treatment to enhance the appearance of their smile.
What can I expect from crown treatment?
If you decide to move forward with treatment, Dr. Kersey comfortably numbs the area with a local anesthetic. The tooth is “prepared,” which means we remove any areas of decay or damage and reshape the tooth so the crown will fit correctly on top. Digital scans or impressions are then taken of the tooth and its neighbors, which are sent to and used by our dental lab to craft your custom crown. To protect the site, a temporary crown is applied. After the permanent crown is ready, you return to our office so that Dr. Kersey can apply and cement it to your tooth.
How are crowns used in dental bridges?
A dental bridge can be used to replace one tooth or a few teeth in a row. A “standard” bridge includes one replacement tooth “pontic” and two dental crowns. The pontic and crowns are fused together. This dental bridge is then applied to the neighboring teeth on both sides of the gap. These teeth or “abutments” serve as anchors to hold the bridge in place. Once the crowns are cemented over the abutment or anchor teeth, the pontic fills the gap in your smile.
What other ways do you replace teeth?
Dr. Kersey has substantial advanced training in dental implants. He may place a single implant in the jaw to anchor a dental crown. The implant serves as the tooth root, while the crown serves as the replacement tooth. For individuals with more extensive needs, Dr. Kersey can explore options such as full-arch dental restorations with All-on-4 and All-on-6 implants.
Do crowns and bridges last a long time?
Yes, they can last for many years. However, their longevity depends on how well you take care of them. Dental crowns can generally be cared for like natural, unaltered teeth. It’s important to brush and floss thoroughly and consistently to prevent harmful bacteria and plaque from damaging the underlying tooth structure. Dental bridges may require a bit more care. Dr. Kersey and our hygiene team can advise on oral care products and flossing techniques to properly clean underneath the bridge.
Good home care is not a substitute for professional care at Kersey Dental. During routine check-ups and cleanings, we assess the condition of your crowns, bridges, and other dental work and make recommendations to keep them in top shape—call (706) 813-6754 to schedule your appointment at our LaGrange, GA office today.
