Crowns and bridges are common restorative treatments that help replace missing or damaged teeth.
These solutions not only enhance the appearance of your smile but also restore proper function, allowing you to chew, speak, and bite with confidence. At Washington Dental, we offer a wide range of restorative options, including custom crowns and bridges designed to support long-term oral health. We proudly serve patients in Carson, CA, providing personalized care and reliable solutions for damaged or missing teeth.
Understanding Crowns & Bridges
Crowns and bridges are dental restorations used to address a variety of conditions, ranging from severely damaged teeth to the replacement of missing teeth. They restore strength, structure, and aesthetics while maintaining proper alignment throughout your smile. Understanding how each restoration works helps you make informed decisions about your oral health.
Crowns
Crowns, often referred to as dental caps, are placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore strength, function, and appearance. Each crown is custom-made to fit securely over the visible portion of the tooth, providing durable protection.
Uses Of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns may be recommended for:
- Tooth decay: Used when a filling is not enough to restore the tooth.
- Fractured or damaged teeth: Crowns provide structural reinforcement.
- Root canal treatment: A crown protects the tooth following therapy.
- Tooth discoloration or misshapen teeth: Used to improve appearance and correct shape.
Types Of Dental Crowns
Different crown materials offer unique benefits:
- Porcelain crowns: Natural-looking and ideal for visible teeth.
- Metal crowns: Extremely durable and best for molars.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: Combine strength with natural appearance.
- All-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns: Metal-free with excellent aesthetics.
Dental Crown Placement Process
The placement of a crown involves:
Your dentist evaluates the tooth and removes any decay or damage. An impression or scan is taken to design a custom crown.
A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent restoration is made.
The permanent crown is bonded securely after adjustments to ensure proper fit and comfort.
Benefits Of Dental Crowns
Crowns offer major advantages, including:
- Strengthening weakened teeth.
- Improving tooth appearance and shape.
- Providing long-lasting durability.
- Restoring normal bite and function.
- Supporting confidence with a natural-looking smile.
Aftercare & Maintenance Of Crowns
To maintain your crown:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled brush.
- Floss carefully around the crown.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that may damage the restoration.
- Schedule routine dental check-ups.
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth.
- Monitor for signs of discomfort or looseness.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap. Bridges restore chewing ability, maintain alignment, and help prevent shifting of adjacent teeth.
Types Of Dental Bridges
Common bridge types include:
- Traditional fixed bridge: Uses crowns on adjacent teeth to support the artificial tooth.
- Cantilever bridge: Supported by a single adjacent tooth.
- Maryland bridge: Uses metal or ceramic wings bonded to natural teeth.
- Implant-supported bridge: Anchored to dental implants rather than natural teeth.
Dental Bridge Placement Process
Treatment typically includes:
Your dentist evaluates the missing space, adjacent teeth, and bone structure.
Teeth supporting the bridge are reshaped to fit crowns.
A temporary bridge protects the area while the permanent restoration is prepared.
The permanent bridge is checked for comfort, function, and appearance before being cemented in place.
Benefits Of Dental Bridges
Bridges offer:
- Restored chewing and speaking ability.
- Improved aesthetics.
- Prevention of shifting teeth.
- Support for facial structure.
- Long-lasting tooth replacement with proper care.
Care & Maintenance Of Dental Bridges
For long-lasting results:
- Brush and floss daily, especially near the gumline.
- Use floss threaders or interdental brushes under the bridge.
- Maintain a balanced diet and avoid hard foods.
- Attend regular dental cleanings.
- Wear a mouthguard during contact sports.
- Address teeth grinding with a nightguard.
- Watch for changes in fit or sensitivity.
Aesthetic Considerations With Crowns & Bridges
Your dentist will consider:
- Color matching
- Shape and size
- Alignment
- Tooth proportions
- Surface texture
- Translucency
- Gumline integration
These elements ensure a natural, harmonious smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crowns & Bridges
With proper care, they may last 5–15 years or longer.
Local anesthesia ensures a comfortable experience.
They cannot be whitened; whitening should occur before restoration.
Minor damage may be repairable; significant damage may require replacement.
They are permanently bonded and cannot be removed at home.
Choose Washington Dental For Crowns & Bridges
Restoring damaged or missing teeth is essential for maintaining long-term oral health, comfort, and confidence. At Washington Dental, our experienced team provides high-quality crowns and bridges tailored to your needs. Whether you require a single crown or a full bridge restoration, we deliver precise, personalized care to help you achieve a strong, healthy smile. We proudly serve patients in Carson, CA, and welcome you to schedule a consultation to explore your restorative options.