Southlake Dental Crowns & Bridges
At the Southlake dentistry practice of J. Lee Pettigrew, DDS, we partner with patients to keep their smiles whole and healthy for a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles. When tooth decay or dental damage does occur, Dr. Pettigrew offers restorative dentistry services using a variety of materials and treatment methods to replace lost tooth structure and restore full function while preserving the greatest amount of healthy tooth structure. Two of the most frequently used restorative dentistry services are dental crowns and bridges. If you need help repairing your smile, contact our Southlake dentistry practice right away. It’s always best to start repairing your smile as soon as possible to avoid additional damage.
What are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are restorations that fit over the top of a damaged or decayed tooth, replacing the lost enamel and protecting the remaining tooth structure. These restorations are available in a variety of materials, including gold, porcelain fused to metal, zirconia, and all-ceramic. Our team will help you find the dental restoration that will best repair your damaged smile.
When are Dental Crowns Recommended?
We may recommend dental crowns to restore your smile in a variety of situations, including:
- To repair damaged or decayed teeth
- To protect root canal treated teeth
- To replace large fillings that break or fall out
- All-ceramic crowns may be used as part of a cosmetic dentistry plan
- When connected to a dental implant, crowns can be used to replace a lost tooth
- Dental crowns can also be used to support a fixed bridge dental restoration
What are Fixed Bridges?
Fixed bridges are restorations used to replace one or a few consecutive missing teeth. Two dental crowns, one on each end, are attached to a replacement tooth or teeth. Then, the dental crowns are affixed to healthy teeth on either side of the gap in the smile. Once in place, fixed bridges look, feel, and function just like your healthy, natural smile.
How are Crowns & Bridges Placed?
Dental crowns and bridges need to be placed over the course of two trips to our office. At the first appointment, we prepare teeth by removing any damaged structures. A small amount of tissue will need to be removed all the way around a tooth before a dental crown can be placed. Once teeth are prepared, we capture impressions that our lab uses to create the custom dental restoration. To protect your newly prepared teeth, a temporary restoration is placed. When we receive the final crown or bridge from the office, you’ll return for the second appointment. During this shorter office visit, we’ll exchange the temporary for a custom crafted dental crown.
How do I Care for My Dental Restoration?
After dental restoration, you can usually brush and floss as usual. However, you may want to switch to a softer tooth brush and less abrasive toothpaste to avoid excessive wear. Waxed floss is usually best of avoid tugging or pulling around the dental restoration. You should also use mouthguards as directed to protect your smile from teeth grinding and clenching or damage during athletic events. During your regular six month dental checkups, we’ll examine your restorations for signs of damage or wear, and make repairs or adjustments as necessary.