Cosmetic & Family Dental Office of Dr. Jason Luchtefuld, DMD

crown & bridge

Crowns (caps)

A crown (or cap) is a procedure done to replace the area of the tooth that you can see.  The tooth is prepared around the sides and the biting surface.  An impression is made and then sent to a laboratory.  The laboratory will use the impression of your mouth to make a stone replica of the teeth and then a crown of the tooth.  This crown is then cemented onto the prepared tooth in your mouth.

A crown can be made to resemble the other teeth in your mouth in color and shape.  Frequently, the crown is made completely in gold on the back teeth because of the need for added strength in those areas.

A crown is done for a variety of reasons.  Cavities, cracks/fractures, a history of root canal, and tooth misalignment or shape are all reasons that a crown may be done in your mouth.

Bridge

A bridge is used to fill the space of a missing tooth.  The teeth on either side of the space must have sufficient strength to support this procedure.  The teeth are prepared just like in the crown process.  The final bridge is cemented in place as a definitive restoration.  Special care is necessary during cleanings and at home for optimal longevity of the bridge.

A bridge can sometimes be used to replace more than one tooth but the process is very individual.  Please ask us if you are interested in considering a bridge and also what other alternatives exist.

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