Our Services / Crowns and Bridges specialist

What is a dental crown?

Dental crowns are artificial “caps” that cover all visible surfaces of a tooth. They are incredibly versatile restorations and can be used to correct many different dental issues.

Crowns can be made of metal, resin, porcelain fused to metal, ceramic, or porcelain. It’s also possible to have a crown made of silver or gold. There are pros and cons to each material choice, and Dr. Guttin can guide you toward the right option for your needs.

Some of the reasons a dental crown is installed include:

• To protect a tooth damaged by severe decay
• To protect a worn down tooth
• To complete a root canal restoration
• To improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth
• To anchor a dental bridge
• To complete a dental implant

Advancements in dental technology have led to dental crown fabrication techniques that yield incredibly life-like crowns that are virtually indistinguishable from your natural tooth tissue. 

What is the process for getting a dental crown?

Dr. Guttin begins with X-rays or other imaging to better understand the condition of your tooth. If a dental crown is the best treatment option, she administers an injection of numbing medication to eliminate sensation in the treatment area.

She then removes a portion of your natural tooth tissue to prepare the tooth for the crown. A set of impressions is made to guide the fabrication of your new crown, and a temporary crown is installed while you wait for the permanent version.

Once your permanent crown arrives, you’ll return to have it cemented into place. This completes the dental crown process, and your restored tooth will look and function much like your natural teeth, only it isn’t subject to decay.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is an affixed dental device that serves to replace one or more missing teeth. Bridges are made of one or more artificial teeth secured together with wire or another material, which is then secured to a dental crown on either side. 

Many people find dental bridges to be a great alternative to partial dentures, which can shift in place and must be removed for cleaning. A bridge is secured into place and requires no special care.

You can expect many years of wear from your new dental bridge, but the device will eventually need to be replaced. The process involves removing the crowns that anchor the bridge, taking impressions, then having new crowns installed to secure the new bridge. 

If you’d like to explore browns and bridges in more detail, call the office to set up a visit, or schedule in just moments using the easy online booking tool.