What will the patient have on the prepared tooth while the laboratory makes a crown or bridge?

One of the greatest specialties of dentistry is restorative dentistry. It offers patients various oral appliances that can treat different dental issues. Ideally, you have many treatment options to explore before you opt for a tooth extraction at Sharon Dental Group. For instance, your dentist can use dental crowns in Sharon, MA, to rebuild your damaged tooth structure instead of an extraction procedure. However, even for tooth loss, you can enjoy restorative treatments like dental bridges in Sharon, MA, for replacing missing teeth.

What Are Dental Crowns and Bridges?

Dental crowns and bridges are restorations that repair and replace damaged or missing teeth.

A dental crown, also called a “cap,” is a tooth-shaped dental restoration that dentists use to cover diseased and damaged teeth to restore shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns usually feature porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials. They are usually cemented onto a natural tooth as a protective covering for a prepared tooth but can also cover a dental implant or anchor a dental bridge.

A dental bridge, on the other hand, is a prosthetic device that replaces up to 3 missing teeth in a row. It consists of artificial teeth called pontics, which are supported by dental crowns on either side. The crowns go over the remaining natural teeth or dental implants adjacent to the gap as the pontics suspend between them, effectively bridging the gap.

Both dental crowns and bridges can be customized to match the natural teeth’ shape, color, and size, resulting in a natural-looking smile. They also improve the function of your teeth by restoring proper oral function involving chewing, speaking, and smiling confidently.

Process of Getting a Dental Crown or Bridge

Getting a dental crown or bridge typically involves several steps, usually within two or three appointments, depending on the complexity of the restoration. The steps are:

• Preparing the tooth: For a crown, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to accommodate the dental crown. In the case of a bridge, the dentist similarly prepares the adjacent teeth to accommodate the dental crowns.
• Impression: Once the tooth or teeth are ready, the dentist takes an impression of the area. It helps to create a custom crown or bridge that fits perfectly in your mouth. At this, the dentist creates a mold and sends it to a dental laboratory for the creation process. The process should take about 2 weeks to complete.
• Placement: Once the permanent crown or bridge is ready, your dentist will place it over the prepared tooth or teeth. The dentist will check the fit and make any adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit.
• Follow-up: After placing the crown or bridge, the dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure that everything is healing properly and to make any further adjustments if necessary.

Do You Need a Temporary Restoration When Getting Crowns or Bridges?

A temporary crown on a prepared tooth is mandatory for both procedures for a dental crown or bridge. Ideally, once the dentist has prepared the natural tooth structure, it takes about 2 weeks before you are ready for the next part of your treatment. Meanwhile, the dentist must account for a temporary bridge placeholder for the tooth.

Role of Temporary Restorations When Getting Dental Crowns and Bridges

Here are some reasons for using temporary restorations are:

• Protection: The essence of covering a tooth with crown preparation is to protect it from infection and damage before the permanent restoration is ready.
• Functionality: Temporary restorations help maintain normal oral function while waiting for the permanent crown or bridge.
• Esthetics: They look similar to the final restoration, which can help patients feel more confident and comfortable while they wait for the permanent crown or bridge.
• Testing: Pre-crown temporary fillings allow the dentist to test the fit, bite, and overall functionality of the prepared tooth or teeth.

Conclusion

If there are any issues with your dental crown or bridge treatment, talk to your dentist when still wearing the temporary restoration so they can make adjustments before the permanent restoration.