How long do dental crowns and bridges last?

With proper care, crowns and bridges can last for many years. However, factors such as oral hygiene, bite forces, and grinding habits can affect their lifespan.

Are crowns and bridges painful?

The procedure to place a crown or bridge typically involves local anesthesia, so you should not experience pain during the treatment. Some discomfort may be felt after the anesthesia wears off, but over-the-counter pain relievers can help.

Can I eat after getting a crown or bridge?

It's best to avoid biting hard or sticky foods for the first few days after getting a crown or bridge to allow the cement to set fully. After that, you can generally eat most foods as you normally would.

Can I whiten my teeth if I have crowns or bridges?

Teeth whitening products will not affect the color of crowns or bridges. However, they can make your natural teeth appear lighter, creating a noticeable difference between your teeth and the restorations.

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We Want to Makeover Your Smile

Chipped, discolored, or missing teeth can really damper the dazzle of your smile. Luckily, Dr. Kirk is brilliant at restoring smiles with crowns and bridges. This is because we believe that dental restorations aren’t just about the function of your teeth; they're about fixing up the aesthetics of your smile so you look and feel good about yourself.

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Understanding Dental Crowns and Bridges

Crowns and bridges are restorative procedures used to improve the appearance and function of damaged or missing teeth.

A dental crown, often referred to as a “cap,” is a tooth-shaped covering that fits over damaged teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance.

A bridge, on the other hand, completely replaces one or more missing teeth by spanning the gap with an artificial tooth anchored to your adjacent teeth.

Why You Might Need a Crown or Bridge

To protect a weak tooth. A tooth with a large filling or one that has had a root canal may be weakened and require a crown to prevent breakage.
To restore a broken or chipped tooth. A crown can be used to repair a severely cracked or chipped tooth.
To cover a discolored tooth. If any of your teeth are severely stained or discolored, a crown can be used to improve their appearance.
To hold a dental bridge in place. Crowns are used to support the artificial teeth in a dental bridge.
To replace missing teeth. Bridges fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth and prevent the remaining teeth from shifting.

How Are Crowns & Bridges Placed?

Dr. Kirk will prepare your affected tooth or teeth by removing a layer of enamel to create space for the crown or bridge.
She will then take an impression of your teeth to create a model of your mouth.
A temporary crown or bridge will then be placed to protect the prepared teeth while permanent restoration is being done.
A dental laboratory will create your custom crown or bridge.
Once the final crown or bridge has arrived, it will be permanently cemented onto the prepared teeth.

What Dr. Kirk Recommends to Care for Your Dental Crowns and Bridges

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush twice daily.
Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque around your restorations.
Visit our office for regular cleanings and examinations.
Avoid biting on hard objects that can damage your crowns or bridge.
If you participate in sports, wear a mouthguard to protect your restorations.