Crowns & Bridges
Dental crowns and bridges are durable restorations that Dr. Pascal uses to repair a broken or damaged tooth or replace a missing tooth.
A dental crown covers a damaged tooth entirely like a “cap,” restoring its shape and function and protecting your root. For example, a bridge uses two crowns as anchors that hold one or more artificial teeth in between, so it restores chewing function and fills the gaps in your smile.
When Does Dr. Pascal Recommend a Dental Crown or Bridge?
If your tooth becomes severely decayed, fractured, or damaged past the scope of what a filling can repair, Dr. Pascal will recommend a crown to restore your tooth. He also may suggest a crown in these situations:
- To strengthen a tooth that’s had root canal treatment
- To cover a tooth with cosmetic concerns
- To replace a sizeable broken-down filling
- As a single-tooth restoration for a dental implant
Dental bridges are an excellent option for patients who need to replace one or more adjacent teeth. In addition, a bridge can be ideal for someone who can’t or doesn’t want to endure dental implant placement surgery.
Whether you need to restore your smile with a dental crown or bridge, our team is here to help!
The Dental Crown or Bridge Process
The process is similar and straightforward, whether you’re getting a dental crown or bridge. It typically takes two visits to complete your restoration, and we begin by taking impressions for the dental lab and preparing your tooth for its new restoration. We’ll also make a temporary version of your restoration that you’ll wear while the dental lab creates your final crown or bridge.
When your new restoration is ready, you’ll return to your San Antonio dentist to have him permanently place your new restoration and adjust it if needed.
Caring for Your Dental Crown or Bridge
Caring for a dental crown is easy because you can brush and floss around it as usual. Daily brushing and flossing keep your tooth clean and bacteria-free, which protects it from decay that would cause it to break down.
The key to keeping a bridge healthy and functional is to keep the anchor teeth clean and plaque-free. Brushing twice daily and flossing around your anchor crowns will ensure excellent longevity from your bridge.
Whether you have a crown or bridge to care for, routine teeth cleanings and checkups with Dr. Pascal are essential. In addition, he’ll check your restorations during every bi-annual exam to ensure no breakdown or wear could cause future problems.
Professional teeth cleanings every six months help to remove any excess plaque buildup that can contribute to problems like gum disease or tooth decay, which can be problematic to your dental restorations.
Contact your team at TPC Dental Care if you have questions about dental bridges or crowns in San Antonio.
