Dental Crowns & Bridges in Houston, TX
When a tooth has sustained significant damage due to decay or trauma, a filling will not be enough to sufficiently restore function. In such cases, a dental crown is the most suitable option. A crown, sometimes referred to as a cap, fits over the entire tooth. It’s a full-coverage restoration, which provides protection and greater stability needed for chewing. It also improves the patient’s appearance by restoring their smile to what it once was.
Why Are Crowns & Bridges Needed?
Dental crowns have multiple applications in restorative and cosmetic dentistry:
- Damaged Teeth – Dental crowns are often recommended for teeth with significant decay, fractures, or large fillings.
- Following Root Canal Treatment – Following a root canal, a dental crown is commonly placed to protect and strengthen the treated tooth.
- Aesthetic Enhancement – Crowns can be used for cosmetic purposes, improving the shape, size, and color of teeth.
As for Dental bridges, they are recommended in situations where patients are missing one or more teeth.
Dr. Anderson believes in creating the most natural-looking smile possible for his patients. The type of crown or bridge most suitable depends on the unique circumstances of that particular patient.
The Dental Crown Process
During the initial visit, Dr. Anderson makes an impression of the tooth. This impression is used to create a temporary crown, which will be worn for two weeks while the permanent crown is being made. Once Dr. Anderson conservatively removes the damage and decay of the tooth while the area is numbed, another impression is made of the tooth and its surrounding area.
The temporary is cemented into place until the patient is ready to return to have final custom-made crown seated. It will look and feel like the natural tooth it replaced. The patient can speak, smile, laugh, and eat without worry.
There are a number of materials to choose from when selecting a crown. Some of the most common and long-lasting include gold and other metal alloys, porcelain fused to metal, and all-porcelain.
One of my crowns fell off over the weekend. I called first thing Monday morning and was able to get in the same day. Dr. Anderson made short work of the fix and had me back out the door in 20 minutes. Truly appreciated on all fronts!
How Dental Bridges Work
Crowns are also used as part of a dental bridge, which restores function when a tooth is missing. The bridge consists of two crowns, which are placed on the teeth located on each side of the gap. An artificial, natural-looking tooth called a pontic fills the gap, thereby, restoring normal appearance and chewing function.
Missing or Damaged Teeth? Dental Crowns or Bridges Might Right for You!
Since each situation is unique, a consultation with Dr. Anderson is the best option in determining which type of crown or bridge will bring out your most beautiful smile. Schedule an appointment today get started restoring your smile with dental crowns and bridges. We serve patients from throughout the greater Houston area—including Tomball, Cypress, and Spring, TX.
