Crowns And Bridges

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped covering that encases the portion of your tooth that sits above your gum line. Dr. Householder regularly uses dental crowns to:

• Repair cracked or chipped teeth
• Protect teeth from further damage
• Cover and support large fillings
• Hold dental bridges in place

Dental crowns can also cover up brown or yellow teeth, improving their aesthetic appearance.

How are crowns installed?

Getting a dental crown usually requires two appointments. 

At your first appointment, Dr. Householder performs a thorough oral exam and takes a series of optical digital impressions using the CEREC system. After taking digital impressions, he administers a local anesthetic and prepares your tooth for the crown. Dr. Householder applies a temporary crown and sends your impressions to a laboratory that manufactures your permanent crown. 

At your second appointment, Dr. Householder injects a local anesthetic, numbing your gums and teeth. He removes your temporary crown, places your permanent crown, and bonds it using dental cement. After your appointment, it’s normal to experience some pain and swelling. However, any discomfort should subside within a week’s time. 

Caring for your dental crowns is easy. Brush and floss every day, like you would your natural teeth.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is a cosmetic appliance that literally “bridges” the gap between one or more missing teeth. 

If you’re missing only one tooth and your surrounding teeth are healthy, Dr. Householder attaches the bridge to your natural teeth. If you’re missing more than one tooth, or damaged teeth surround your missing tooth, dental implants or another type of cosmetic appliance may be necessary.

What’s the process for getting a dental bridge?

Getting a dental bridge also requires two appointments. 

At your first appointment, Dr. Householder takes a series of optical digital impressions using the CEREC system. He sends this information to a laboratory that manufactures your dental bridge. Dr. Householder also prepares your teeth to receive a bridge. This involves administering a local anesthetic and filing your teeth down to accommodate for the bridge and crowns.

At your second appointment, Dr. Householder aligns your bridge and bonds it to your teeth. He also provides you with a list of careful recovery instructions. A few weeks later, you return for a follow-up appointment, when Dr. Householder makes any necessary adjustments.

Don’t let chipped, cracked, or otherwise damaged teeth negatively impact your confidence or self-esteem. Call today or use the online booking tool to make an appointment at Ronald W. Householder, DDS, PLLC.