Crowns And Bridges Specialist

What are crowns and bridges?

Crowns and bridges are two different types of dental prostheses that can repair or replace teeth. Damage or tooth loss from decay, gum disease, or breakage can leave you prone to further oral injuries and complications, but a crown or bridge can ensure that your oral health stays intact more successfully. 

Depending on your needs, Dr. Gaitan might recommend getting a:

Crown

A crown can either be bonded to a dental implant abutment post or to a prepared tooth. It’s made to look just like the original tooth in shape, color, and size and can either replace a tooth or protect it from further damage. A crown can also improve the appearance of the tooth it covers.

Bridge

Bridges rely on either one or two crowns or a metal framework to suspend a false tooth, called a pontic, in a gap. Bridges can also be made with several pontics to replace two or more missing teeth in a row. Filling a gap with a bridge helps stop your other teeth from drifting into the gap.

What is the process of getting crowns and bridges?

When you come in for your crown or bridge treatment consultation with Dr. Gaitan, a few steps take place in preparation. 

Dr. Gaitan discusses your options for your crown or bridge’s material, which include porcelain, ceramic, gold, or other metals. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are usually the preferred options because you can color match them to your natural enamel.

Dr. Gaitan takes digital X-rays, photographs, impressions, and intraoral scans while planning the creation of your crown or bridge. If you’re getting a crown or a bridge that relies on crowns, he prepares the tooth by removing a layer of enamel.

Dr. Gaitan then designs and manufactures the crown or bridge. If you’re getting dental implants to hold your crowns, he refers you to a specialist for the surgery. 

Once your crown or bridge is fabricated, Dr. Gaitan checks the fit before bonding it in place. 

How should I care for my crowns and bridges?

Caring properly for prostheses like crowns and bridges guarantees they’ll last for as long as possible, which may be your entire life. To avoid needing a premature replacement crown or bridge, Dr. Gaitan recommends:

• Avoid chewing on ice and other solid foods or objects
• Brushing at least twice a day
• Flossing at least once a day
• Using an antimicrobial mouth rinse
• Visiting regularly for professional cleanings
• Wearing a mouthguard for contact sports

You can’t always avoid acute damage or wear and tear over time, but taking precautions like these improves your chances of making your crown or bridge stay in pristine shape. 

To schedule your crowns and bridges consultation, call either office or book your next appointment at Ricardo M. Gaitan, DDS, online today.