Dental Crowns & Bridges in Ballwin, MO
Tooth fillings can help restore teeth to their non-damaged state if minor decay is involved. However, if your tooth decay is extensive, your dentist will likely recommend a dental crown, which can not only restore the functionality of your decayed tooth but offer the appearance of a natural, healthy tooth. Or, in cases involving one or more missing teeth, your dentist may suggest a bridge, which can be attached to crowns or dental implants depending on your oral health.
Ready to see if you are a good candidate for dental crowns or bridges? In just one to two days, you can get the healthy, flawless smile you’ve always wanted – just contact Baxter Dental Group today for more information or to schedule an appointment!
What is a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns are typically made out of metal, plastic, ceramic, or porcelain, and are designed to restore a damaged tooth’s shape, size, and strength by encasing the tooth. During your appointment, your dentist can explain the advantages and disadvantages of each type of crown, and whether it is the best option for you.
What is a Bridge?
Bridges are made up of porcelain and are fused to metal. Then, the bridge is either a) fixed between two crowns in situations where a patient’s original teeth are still strong enough for a bridge to be placed, or b) fixed to dental implants that are strategically placed in the patient’s gums on either side of the bridge to provide the structure and strength of natural teeth.
Signs You Need a Dental Crown or a Dental Bridge
Dental crowns and bridges can help strengthen damaged teeth, lend a natural look and feel, and function just like natural teeth. If you’ve experienced any of the following, you may benefit from having a dental crown and/or a bridge placed:
- Root canal – during a root canal, the infected tooth is hollowed-out, leaving the weakened teeth susceptible to further damage. A crown protects the weakened tooth and restores the tooth’s functionality.
- Advanced cavity – if you have extensive decay, oftentimes, a crown can provide more protection in this situation than a filling.
- Excessive wear – if you have weak or loose teeth, a crown can strengthen and protect your teeth while restoring functionality, allowing you to eat, drink, and brush your teeth without pain or causing further damage.
- Large gaps – if you’ve recently had a dental implant placed, and have spacing, or you’re missing teeth a dental crown and bridge can be placed on either side of a gap and fill in unwanted space.
- Undesirable appearance – if you have severely stained or misshapen teeth due to cigarettes, improper care, grinding, or other issues, a crown can seamlessly change the shape or color of a tooth.
If you think you may need a dental crown or a dental bridge, contact Baxter Dental Group today to schedule an appointment with your dentist and discuss whether dental crowns or bridges are the right choice for you based on your oral health and lifestyle.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
During your appointment, your dentist will start by preparing the teeth and taking impressions of the teeth being fitted for a crown or bridge. Then, they will place a temporary crown or bridge on your teeth.
The impressions are then sent to a lab, and in the lab, a mold of the teeth is poured and the work begins.
There are multiple steps involved and different technicians work on the mold to fabricate a crown or bridge. The completed work is then sent back to our office, and after necessary checks and adjustments, it is cemented onto your teeth!
Contact Baxter Dental Group to Schedule an Appointment for Dental Crowns or Bridges
When you are ready to repair your smile, Baxter Dental Group is here to discuss your options and make sure that you have the best possible experience. If dental crowns are not the right option for you, and you would like to improve the appearance of your natural teeth, our dentists provide a wide range of cosmetic dentistry services that may be a good fit for you! Call us at 636-735-7129 or contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.