Dental Crowns and Bridges
Unhappy with your damaged or missing teeth? Let us help you improve your smile with dental crowns or bridges here at Center City Emergency Dentist.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns improve the look of your smile by filling in empty gaps with teeth that look natural and just like new. At CCED, our experienced dentists in Center City, Philadelphia, use the highest-quality dental crowns and place them with the utmost care.
Dental crowns act as “caps” that cover a damaged tooth. Our dental health providers are able to shape your crown to fit perfectly within your mouth and give you the flawless smile you deserve.
Types of Dental Crowns
- CERAMIC: Made with porcelain materials, ceramic dental crowns are primarily used on your front teeth to fill in gaps or cover teeth and implants. Ceramic crowns match the color of surrounding teeth and easily blend in to bring out your natural smile.
- PORCELAIN FUSED TO METAL: Stronger than ceramic crowns, porcelain fused to metal crowns are a lot more durable, due to their metal structure. Despite their increased strength, these crowns tend to reduce the natural appearance of the tooth.
- GOLD ALLOY: Made with a mixture of different metals, along with gold and copper, these dental crowns are highly durable and protect the tooth without damaging the original tooth structure.
- BASE METAL ALLOYS: These crowns are made with what are called “base metals,” which include chromium and nickel, and are best used to cover teeth in the back of the mouth.
The Process
1. First, the dentist will take a look at the damaged tooth to see if it is fitted for a crown. Depending on the situation, the dentist may file it down or fill it in.
2. Once the tooth is properly shaped, your dentist will take an impression of the tooth and its surrounding areas and send it to a dental lab, where a permanent, personalized crown will be created. Until that process is complete, you’ll leave our office with a temporary crown to protect the shaped tooth.
3. Once we’ve received the crown from the lab, we will contact you to schedule a follow-up appointment, where we will position the permanent crown and affix it to the tooth with an adhesive.
When the procedure is complete, you’ll have a crown that will function and feel like a normal tooth.
Dental Bridges
Fixed bridges are used to fill the gaps where multiple teeth are missing. In addition to the aesthetic aspect of a full and restored smile, dental bridges help improve speech and make eating much less complicated. A fixed dental bridge can last more than 15 years if properly cared for and will improve overall oral hygiene and give you the gapless smile you deserve. When it comes to restorative dentistry, bridges not only replace missing teeth but help keep the rest of your smile in position.
The Biggest (and Brightest) Benefits of Dental Crowns and Bridges
Dental crowns and bridges have been the go-to solutions for countless Philadelphia residents and people worldwide for years, and they can be your answer, too. Simply put, they’re among the best choices out there for many dental issues. Here’s why:
Dental Crowns
- Protect weakened teeth from further damage
- Restore the shape and function of damaged teeth
- Cover discolored or misshapen teeth
- Support teeth after root canal treatment
- Attach to dental implants for tooth replacement
Dental Bridges
- Fill gaps left by missing teeth
- Prevent shifting of adjacent teeth
- Restore your ability to chew and speak properly
- Maintain face shape and prevent bone loss
- Boost confidence with a complete smile
Early Dental Treatment Prevents Other Oral Health Problems
Getting dental crowns and bridges early can help you avoid a host of oral health issues down the road. Tooth decay can spread to neighboring teeth if left untreated, while missing teeth can lead to bone loss and shifting of remaining teeth. Crowns protect vulnerable teeth from further damage, preventing the need for more extensive treatments later. Bridges fill gaps, maintaining proper bite alignment and reducing the risk of gum disease. By addressing these issues promptly, you’re investing in your long-term oral health and potentially saving yourself from more complex dental procedures in the future.
Do I Need a Dental Crown?
You might need a dental crown if you’re dealing with a severely damaged or decayed tooth. Crowns are versatile solutions that can address various dental issues. They’re ideal for protecting weak teeth from breaking, restoring already broken teeth, or covering large fillings when there’s not enough natural tooth left. If you’ve had a root canal, a crown can provide necessary protection for the treated tooth. Crowns also offer cosmetic benefits, covering discolored or misshapen teeth to enhance your smile. If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity or have a visibly damaged tooth, it’s worth discussing crown options with your Philadelphia dental office.
A Cost-Effective Option for Restoring At-Risk Teeth
Dental crowns and bridges in Philadelphia, PA, offer a cost-effective way to restore at-risk teeth. These treatments can save you money in the long run. By protecting vulnerable teeth, crowns prevent further damage that could lead to more expensive procedures like extractions and implants. Bridges replace a missing tooth, maintaining proper bite alignment and preventing issues with remaining teeth. Both options are durable, often lasting many years with proper care. Compared to the ongoing costs of treating recurring dental problems or the expense of full tooth replacement, crowns and bridges provide excellent value for your dental health investment.
Do I Need a Full Set of Replacement Teeth Before Getting a Dental Bridge?
No, you don’t need a full set of replacement teeth before getting a dental bridge. In fact, bridges are designed to replace one or more missing teeth in a row. They use your existing teeth on either side of the gap as anchors (abutment teeth). These natural teeth are prepared to support the bridge, which consists of artificial teeth (pontics) that fill the space. However, it’s crucial that the abutment teeth are healthy and strong enough to support the bridge. If you’re missing multiple teeth in different areas, your dentist might recommend alternative solutions like partial dentures or a dental implant. The best approach depends on your specific situation and oral health needs.
Dental Services That Go Beyond Crowns and Bridges
At CCED, we provide a wide range of fantastic dental services. Our expertise extends beyond crowns and bridges to include emergency dental care and various options for missing teeth, such as dentures and dental implants. We’re committed to finding the best solution for your unique dental needs, whether it’s restoring a single tooth or addressing multiple dental issues. Other services include:
If dental crowns sound like the right option for you, give us a call to schedule an appointment for your next visit to Center City, Philadelphia. We will work hard to give you a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime.
