Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges Bryan, TX
One of the most common dental treatments involves fixing tooth decay. The first line of defense against a cavity is a filling. However, deeper decay may require more extensive repair. In such cases, dentists may rely on a dental crown treatment or a dental cap.
Dental crown treatment is available at Rivers Family Dentistry in Bryan and the surrounding area. Crowns help restore a tooth that has significant damage with a custom-sized cap that fits over the old tooth. We provide dental crowns and restorations for our patients. For broken, damaged, or decaying teeth, crowns may be the right solution. Call us at (979) 710-2216 to get your teeth problems checked out today.
Dental Crowns Explained
According to the American College of Prosthodontists, the most common dental restoration is a single dental crown. Dentists utilize dental crowns in a variety of treatment situations. Crowns may help protect vulnerable teeth from further decay. They may cap damaged teeth and cover deep fillings. Crowns often complete dental implants or cover teeth treated with root canals. Dentists can work with their dental lab and the patient to create custom-fitting dental crowns that may restore a tooth's shape and size to near perfect.
“Dentists can work with their dental lab and the patient to create custom-fitting dental crowns that may restore a tooth’s shape and size to near perfect.”
How Dental Bridges Work with Dental Crowns
It is not uncommon for patients to get dental crowns to complete a dental bridge. According to WebMD, bridges fill in the gap left behind by a missing tooth. If a patient has a single missing tooth, dentists may restore it by creating a dental appliance that anchors to the two adjacent teeth. The dentist must reshape the two abutment teeth to secure the dental bridge. Reshaping these teeth involves removing much of the enamel. The abutment teeth are topped with dental crowns which attach to the new artificial tooth that makes up the middle piece of the bridge.
“The dentist must reshape the two abutment teeth to secure the dental bridge.”
Why Patients Get a Dental Crown
Some patients may choose dental crowns to avoid further damage or decay to an existing tooth or to maintain an aesthetically pleasing smile. Crowns can also help prevent tooth loss that could lead to additional oral health problems and more expensive dental work. Additionally, patients may find crowns help them maintain a normal bite and keep the teeth from shifting.
“Crowns also help prevent tooth loss that could lead to additional oral health problems and more expensive dental work.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges in Bryan, TX
Receiving a Dental Crown Step-by-Step
Same-day dental crowns are a relatively quick, convenient alternative to traditional crowns. Patients can expect their appointment to take a few hours, though some factors may vary.
- Before the Crown. The dentist treats any problems before starting the dental crown creation process. Any infections or cavities must be addressed or filled. Sometimes, an old crown needs replacement. In this case, the dentist will remove the remnants first.
- Preparation. Next, the dentist must prepare the tooth for the crown. The dentist or another team member will shave down the tooth to make room for the crown. Then, the dental staff makes a series of impressions and sends them to a computer to craft the custom-fit mold. The mold is crafted from a solid block of ceramic material, creating a strong cover for the natural tooth.
- Crown Delivery. Once the crown is crafted, it is ready to be placed. First, the dentist tries on the crown to ensure it feels and looks right in the mouth. If it fits correctly, the dentist uses dental cement to glue it in place permanently.
“In many cases, the dental crown procedure is part of another dental treatment plan, such as a root canal.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are dental crowns used for?
Q. How do dental bridges work with dental crowns?
Q. Why should I get a dental crown?
Q. What is it like to go through the process of receiving a dental crown?
People Also Ask
Q. Am I a good candidate for a dental bridge?
Q. What is a dental emergency?
Q. What is restorative dentistry?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Does getting a dental crown hurt?
A. During preparation, the dentist may numb the area for the patient’s comfort. After fitting, patients may have a little soreness in the area where the crown sits for a few days. Pain that extends a week after the crown fitting may indicate a poor fit, which requires a return visit for an adjustment. However, during the appointment, the dentist will have the patient perform several tests checking for any hindrances in the bite and feel of the crown.
Q. Does a dental crown look natural?
A. Most dental crowns look just like the rest of the natural teeth. Dentists work to help patients select a natural-looking shade for the new dental crown that matches the other teeth. Today's dental crowns are indistinguishable from permanent teeth.
Q. Does a dental crown need replacement?
A. Dental crowns need replacement over time. The crown's material and the patient's oral health may determine how often they will need replacement. On average, it takes five to 15 years before crowns require replacement.
Q. Are crowns a cost-effective choice?
A. Patients should discuss dental crown options with their insurance provider to see if crowns are covered. Crowns that are part of a treatment plan, such as tooth decay repair, may have a higher likelihood of insurance coverage. The choice of material for the crown also influences the cost.
Q. How long will it take to get a crown?
A. The entire process only takes a few hours and can be completed in a single appointment. This means the patient can leave our office with a fully functional crown the same day without the need for a temporary crown or multiple appointments. The next appointment will be a general check-up appointment where we will ensure no damage has occurred to the dental crown or surrounding area, as well as provide normal comprehensive oral care.
Q. What are the alternatives to getting a crown?
A. Patients may have other options besides dental crowns, depending on their case and situation. For some patients, a filling, inlay, or onlay may be sufficient to restore the tooth. Pulling the tooth may also be a viable alternative to a dental crown.
Cosmetic Dentistry Terminology
Call Us to Get More Details
Our dental crown options in Bryan give patients choices for tooth restoration. If you have concerns about your teeth, call us today at (979) 710-2216 to schedule a consultation regarding any questions you have about our dental crown services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2023
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2023
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2023
About our business, license, and website security
- Rivers Family Dentistry was established in 2014.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Brazos County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Bryan, College Station, Caldwell, Hearne, and Snook
- TX (License #23933). View License Information and Specifics
- National Provider Identifier Database (1740411016). View NPI Registry Information
- Healthgrades. View Background Information and Reviews
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Back to top of Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges