When a tooth becomes weak due to decay or damage, it may need more help than a simple filling. In order to save the tooth from extraction, you can opt for a highly functional dental crown. If extraction is necessary, you can fill in the remaining gap with a dental bridge.
A dental crown or dental bridge are fixed devices cemented to the existing teeth. Crowns and bridges can give new life to your smile. A complete smile will allow you to chew and speak properly, and socialize with confidence!
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged tooth. It fortifies the tooth and improves its appearance.
We design beautiful porcelain crowns that will blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth. Porcelain crowns are a dependable way to:
- Replace large fillings.
- Protect teeth from cracking.
- Cover discolored or misshapen teeth.
Porcelain crowns can protect your teeth and make your smile look new again!
What Is a Dental Bridge?
Dr. Erpenbach may recommend a custom-made dental bridge when a patient needs to fill a gap left by missing teeth. It is important to fill in the space in your smile to prevent the remaining teeth from shifting. Your dental bridge will help you maintain your attractive and decay-free smile.
In a fixed dental bridge, the missing tooth, or teeth, will attach to adjacent remaining teeth by porcelain crowns that are either cemented or bonded into the mouth. After placement, fixed bridgework cannot be removed without the help of a dentist.
How Are Crowns and Bridges Formed?
We place porcelain crowns and dental bridges all the time! Before either can be placed into the mouth, the anchor teeth must be prepared for the dental crowns. Dr. Erpenbach, Knoxville dentist, will make an impression of the teeth and use it as a mold for the dental crown or dental bridge.
At our practice, we now use a Trios 3 Digital Scanner! With this technology, patients can enjoy digital impressions that don’t require any goop. Digital impressions provide more comfort for the patient and better color-matching, so your crown will more perfectly blend in with your natural teeth.
You can wear a temporary crown or bridge while our lab designs your custom-fit restoration with high quality materials. Within a week or two, you can return to our office for the final placement.
How Long Will My Crown or Bridge Last?
We design our dental bridges and crowns to last for 10-15 years or longer. To maximize the lifespan of your dental bridge or dental crown, remember to practice good oral hygiene habits. To prevent chipping, avoid using your dental work to bite down on hard surfaces.
Protect and Restore Your Smile with Dental Crowns and Bridges in Knoxville
Our helpful and compassionate team can help you regain your healthy smile. For more information about porcelain crowns or dental bridges, call our office in Knoxville for an appointment.
