Crowns and Bridges

Crowns and bridges are dental restorations that repair or replace severely damaged, decaying, or missing teeth. At Redmond Dentists in Redmond, Washington, Ellen Vyas, DDS, and the team use crowns and bridges to rehabilitate smiles and prevent damage and decay from worsening. Call Redmond Dentists to schedule a crowns and bridges appointment, or book your visit online today.

Can crowns and bridges repair cavities or replace missing teeth?

Yes. Crowns and bridges are some of the most common dental restorations. They provide an effective and affordable treatment for a variety of problems, including cavities, severe tooth damage, and extractions. 

The providers at Redmond Dentists work closely with experienced dental labs to design and create custom crowns and bridges that restore smiles and fit perfectly.

How are crowns and bridges different?

Crowns and bridges have many similarities, but they aren’t the same thing:

Crowns

A crown is a cap made of porcelain or porcelain “pasted on gold” bonded on top of a severely damaged or decaying tooth. The crown covers all of your enamel above the gum line, preventing further problems.

Bridges

Your provider recommends a bridge if you’ve lost a permanent tooth to extraction or trauma. A bridge has a false tooth (pontic) and two crowns or a metal framework. The pontic replaces your natural tooth, and the crowns or framework hold the bridge in place, keeping it from shifting.

Some bridges are fixed, meaning they stay inside your mouth, while others are removable. Removable bridges are like dentures in that you soak them in a cleaning solution at night.

What’s the process for getting crowns and bridges?

Getting a crown or a bridge at Redmond Dentists takes two visits about a week apart.

If you need a crown, your dentist removes the damaged or decaying portion of your tooth and takes an impression. They send your impression to a dental lab that designs and creates a custom dental crown.

If you need a bridge, your dentist removes some enamel from the two teeth on either side of the gap in your smile. They take impressions of the two teeth and send them to a dental lab that designs and creates your dental bridge.

Once your crown or bridge is finished, you return to Redmond Dentists. Your provider uses dental cement to bond the crown or bridge in place, checks your bite, and provides care instructions. 

Do crowns and bridges last forever?

Crowns and bridges don’t last forever, but good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups can extend their life. The providers at Redmond Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice daily, regular flossing, and visiting the office every six months for preventive checkups.

Call Redmond Dentists to see if you’re a candidate for crowns and bridges, or book your visit online today.