CROWN & BRIDGE CROWNS:  A Crown (often called a cap) is an artificial cover that restores a decayed or damaged tooth to its normal shape and size. It is useful for protecting the structure of a tooth that is cracked or broken. A crown can also be used to change the shape of a tooth, to correct a bite or cosmetic problem, or to replace existing broken or poor fitting crowns. Crowns are used to restore an endondontically (root canal) treated tooth. A crown may be made of various metals, all porcelain, or a combination of the  two. (See pictures at left). At Chesterfield Valley Dental Group we prepare your damaged tooth for a crown by reducing and reshaping the tooth so the crown will fit properly. Then an impression of the prepared tooth and of the surrounding and opposing teeth is taken. The impression is then sent off to the lab for fabrication. It usually takes about 2-3 weeks to get the crown back from the lab. A temporary crown will be placed on the tooth between visits. For crowns that are in the esthetic zone, we will have our lab do a custum shade so that it will match your other teeth as nature   intended.
BRIDGES:  Dental bridges replace missing teeth by "bridging" the gap between two remaining teeth. A bridge has a pontic, or false tooth with a dental crown on either side. The crowns are fitted over the remaining teeth to hold the pontic in place. The process and materials of making a bridge are the same as making a crown (See Crown Above). With proper oral hygiene, bridges can last 10-15 years. However, improper or infrequent brushing and flossing, irregular dental visits, and excessive sugar intake can all bring untimely damage to the bridge.
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