Crowns
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A crown covers or caps a tooth, restoring it to its normal shape and size. We mainly use E-max crowns which made from strong, natural-looking all-ceramics that blend seamlessly with your teeth. Not only can crowns enhance your appearance, but they also strengthen and protect teeth weakened by decay, root canal treatments, or other destructive stresses. Teeth under stress tend to flex, making teeth with larger fillings more prone to fracture. A crown fully encases the tooth, providing protection against further fractures and breakdown
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Crown Procedure
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Getting a crown involves several key steps. Initially, the dentist prepares the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to fit the crown. Sometimes, it may be necessary to build up the preparation or core with restorative material. Next, the dentist uses the iTero scanner to take a digital impression of the prepared tooth, along with the surrounding teeth and bite, capturing highly accurate 3D images. This digital impression is sent to a dental lab where the Emax crown is designed using CAD/CAM technology. This process typically takes about two weeks. In the meantime, a temporary crown is made and bonded to the tooth. The Emax crown is fabricated from a block of ceramic material to match the exact specifications of the digital design. Once the crown is ready, you will have a follow-up appointment where the dentist fits and adjusts the crown to ensure a perfect fit and bite
Although rare, potential issues with dental crowns can include nerve irritation, which typically results in temporary tooth sensitivity to temperature. However, there is a small possibility that the nerve may become damaged enough to require a root canal. Over time, crowns can also loosen, and the porcelain may chip or crack. Additionally, a tooth with a crown remains susceptible to decay and gum infection. Therefore, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly |
VIDEOS
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Bridges
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Dental bridges are a common dental restoration method used to replace one or more missing teeth. They work by literally "bridging" the gap created by missing teeth. They typically consists of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap—these anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth—with false teeth in between. These false teeth, known as pontics, can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials and are designed to blend in with your natural teeth. Dental bridges can restore your smile, improve your ability to chew and speak, maintain the shape of your face, distribute the forces in your bite properly, and prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
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VIDEOS
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Bridge Procedure
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Getting a dental bridge usually involves multiple visits. First, the abutment teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, the dentist uses the iTero scanner to take a digital impression of the prepared tooth, along with the surrounding teeth and bite, capturing highly accurate 3D images. This digital impression is sent to a dental lab where the bridge is designed using CAD/CAM technology. This process typically takes about two weeks. A temporary bridge is often worn until the permanent one is ready. Once ready, the permanent bridge is checked and adjusted for fit and then cemented into place
Dental bridges can have several potential complications, such as breakage from improper oral hygiene or excessive biting force, damage or decay in the supporting teeth, gum disease due to poor oral care, and nerve damage, which is rare. Infection at the bridge site or surrounding teeth and shifting of adjacent teeth are also possible issues. It's important to discuss these risks with your dentist and maintain regular check-ups and proper oral hygiene to minimize complications. |
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Care for Crowns and Bridges
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To care for both dental crowns and bridges, it's essential to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily to prevent plaque buildup. Avoid chewing on hard foods, ice, or using your teeth to open packages, as these actions can damage your dental work. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are crucial to ensure the crowns and bridges, as well as the surrounding teeth, remain in good condition. If you experience any discomfort or notice any issues, contact your dentist promptly.
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