How do crowns work?

A crown is a tooth-shaped cap used to entirely cover or “cap” a damaged tooth. Besides strengthening a damaged tooth, a crown can be used to improve its appearance, shape or alignment. A crown can also be placed on top of an implant to provide a tooth-like shape and structure for function. Porcelain or ceramic crowns can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. Other materials include gold and metal alloys, acrylic and ceramic.

Dr. Gabot-Heyman may recommend a crown to:

• Replace a large filling when there isn't enough tooth remaining
• Protect a weak tooth from fracturing
• Restore a fractured tooth
• Attach a bridge
• Cover a dental implant
• Cover a discolored or poorly shaped tooth
• Cover a tooth that has had root canal treatment

How do bridges work?

Bridges are commonly used to replace one or more missing teeth. They span the space where the teeth are missing. Bridges are cemented to the natural teeth or implants surrounding the empty space. These teeth, called abutments, serve as anchors for the bridge. A replacement tooth, called a pontic, is attached to the crowns that cover the abutments. As with crowns, you have a choice of materials for bridges. Dr. Gabot-Heyman can help you decide which to use, based on the location of the missing tooth (or teeth), its function, aesthetic considerations and cost. Porcelain or ceramic bridges can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. A bridge can keep your other teeth from moving out of place. Once a bridge is placed, it works just like your natural teeth.

How are Crowns and Bridges Made?

Before either a crown or a bridge can be made, the tooth (or teeth) must be reduced in size so that the crown or bridge will fit over it properly. After reducing the tooth/teeth, Dr. Gabot-Heyman will take an impression to provide an exact mold for the crown or bridge. If porcelain is to be used, we will determine the correct shade for the crown or bridge to match the color of your existing teeth.

Using this impression, the lab fabricates your crown or bridge. A temporary crown or bridge will be put in place to cover the prepared tooth while the permanent crown or bridge is being made. When the permanent crown or bridge is ready, the temporary crown or bridge is removed, and the new crown or bridge is cemented over your prepared tooth or teeth.

How Long do Crowns and Bridges Last?

While crowns and bridges can last a lifetime, they do sometimes come loose or fall out. The most important step you can take to ensure the longevity of your crown or bridge is to practice good oral hygiene and protect your teeth. Keep your gums and teeth healthy by brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and flossing daily. If you have a history of clenching or grinding your teeth, an occlusal guard is recommended. To prevent damage to your new crown or bridge, avoid chewing hard foods, ice or other hard objects. Also visit Dr. Gabot-Heyman and our hygienist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.