Fox Valley Dental Associates of Crystal Lake, LLC

Call Fox Valley Dental Associates at 815-477-0770



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Crowns

A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original size and shape. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.

Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular because they resemble your natural teeth. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.

    Reasons for crowns:
  1. Broken or fractured teeth
  2. Fractured tooth syndrome
  3. Cosmetic enhancement
  4. Decayed teeth
  5. Fractured fillings
  6. Large fillings
  7. Root Canal treated teeth

What does getting a crown involve?

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include the preparation of your tooth, taking highly accurate impressions (molds) that will be used by the Laboratory to create your custom crown. One of the molds will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two to three weeks until your new crown is fabricated.

While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.

At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.

Regular dental visits will prolong the life expectancy of your new crown.

Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth.

There are several types of bridges. We will discuss the best options for your situation.

The "traditional bridge" is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to a metal substructure. Porcelain fixed bridges are most popular because they resemble your natural teeth. This type of bridge consists of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutments) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), thus filling the space created by one or more missing teeth.

Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.
    Reasons for a fixed bridge:
  1. Fill space of missing teeth
  2. Maintain facial shape
  3. Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
  4. Restore chewing and speaking ability
  5. Restore your smile
  6. Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance

What does getting a fixed bridge involve?

Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow space for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for two to three weeks until your next appointment.

At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted for proper fit, and cemented. Occasionally a bridge may be temporarily cemented. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later date.

You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will prolong the life of your new permanent bridge.

Post-Op Information for Temporary Crowns

Post-Op Information for Crowns & Bridges
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