A dental crown is an artificial cap that restores a decayed or damaged tooth to its normal shape and size. A crown is used to protect the structure of the tooth that is cracked or broken. It can also be used to change the shape of a tooth, to correct a cosmetic problem, or to strengthen a heavily restored tooth. A crown may be made of precious or non-precious metal or porcelain.
Once a decision has been made to crown the tooth, the damaged tooth will be reshaped, so as to create space for the crown. Then a measurement of the prepared tooth and of the surrounding and opposing teeth is taken. A temporary cover will be placed onto the prepared tooth until placement of the permanent crown. The measurements are then sent to a dental laboratory for processing of the crown. Once the crown is ready, the crown is then cemented or bonded to the prepared tooth.
A fixed bridge can replace single or multiple missing teeth. It consists of single or multiple replacement teeth attached to crowns that are placed on two or more supporting teeth. Not only does it replace teeth, the fixed bridge helps restore normal function and proper position of your bite. A fixed bridge is made of various metals, porcelain, or a combination of the two.
