Dental Crowns and Bridges

South Elgin dentist Dr. Rice offers tooth crown and dental bridge procedures.

What are Dental Crowns?

A tooth crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A tooth crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations. Although there are several types of dental crowns, porcelain crowns (tooth colored crowns) are the most popular, because they resemble your natural teeth. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain dental crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.

Reasons for Dental Crowns

Patients may need a tooth crown for one of several reasons:

  • Broken or fractured teeth.
  • Cosmetic enhancement.
  • Decayed teeth.
  • Fractured fillings.
  • Large fillings.
  • Tooth has a root canal.
  • Cap a single dental implant.

The Dental Crowns Procedure

What does getting dental crowns involve? A tooth crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom tooth crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new, permanent tooth crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory. While the tooth is numb, Dr. Rice will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the tooth crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly. At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new dental crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate. You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new tooth crown.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth. There are several types of dental bridges. When you come to our office in Elgin, IL, you and Dr. Rice will discuss the best options for your particular case. The “traditional dental bridge” is usually made of porcelain fused to metal. Porcelain fixed bridges are most popular because they resemble your natural teeth. This type of dental bridge consists to two dental crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) on each side of the dental bridge and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth. Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.

If you live or work in the Elgin, Dundee, and South Elgin, Illinois area and have missing or damaged teeth, contact David Rice, DDS in Elgin today. After an examination, he can give you the options that will fit your specific situation. Whether it be a tooth crown, a dental bridge fixed with dental crowns, dental implants, or another option, Dr. Rice can help restore health and beauty to your smile.