Restore Teeth with Crowns & Bridges
Did you know that you don’t have to wear braces that require brackets and wires to get straight teeth? The revolutionary Invisalign® clear aligners have changed that for the better. At Signature Smile General & Cosmetic Dentistry in Brooklyn Heights, New York, Dr. Trogan, DDS, is specially trained in Invisalign technology to give you the smile you’ve always wanted. Schedule your consultation today by calling the New York City office or booking your appointment online.
What Are Crowns and Bridges?
Dental crowns restore your teeth by improving function and enhancing the appearance of your smile. Made of durable and attractive porcelain, crowns are designed to mimic the look of a natural tooth. Dr. Trogan places the artificial crown over your damaged tooth, completely covering it down to the gum line to protect its original structure. Crowns are often needed for teeth with large fillings, cracks, deep cavities, severe wear, or after a root canal. They can also be used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of a tooth.
Bridges, on the other hand, are made of a series of crowns used to replace missing teeth. To create a bridge, the teeth on either side of the gap are prepared for crowns, and a bridge is made to restore the missing tooth area. Bridges serve as an alternative to partial dentures or implants for replacing missing teeth. The procedure begins with locally numbing the area where the crown or bridge will be placed. The teeth are prepared, and impressions are taken to send to our dental lab for custom fabrication. You will wear a temporary crown or bridge until the final restoration is ready for fitting.
When are dental crowns necessary?
Dr. Trogan recommends dental crowns if you have a:
- Very large filling
- Broken or fractured tooth
- Broken filling
- Worn-down tooth
- Discolored tooth
- Misshapen tooth
- Completed root canal procedure
- Dental implant that needs covering
- Bridge that needs an attachment
At your exam, Dr. Trogan can determine if you can benefit from a dental crown.
What can I expect when getting dental crowns?
Before your procedure begins, Dr. Trogan numbs the targeted area. She then prepares your tooth by filing down its surface and sides, making room for the crown that covers it. If you have a large portion of your tooth missing, she may build it up, using a filling material to support the crown.
Dr. Trogan then makes an impression of your tooth and sends it to a dental lab for a customized creation of your crown. You wear a temporary crown until your permanent one is ready. At your second appointment, Dr. Trogan cements the final placement of your dental crown.
What are the benefits of dental crowns?
Dental crowns provide several benefits for your damaged tooth, including:
- Restoration
- Strengthening
- Protection
- Ensuring it stays in place
The durability of your dental crown offers confidence when chewing, but your crown also covers imperfections that can make you feel self-conscious. The porcelain material of the crown blends in naturally with your other teeth, giving your smile a seamless appearance.
How do I care for my dental crowns?
To care for your dental crowns, practice healthy oral hygiene habits just like you do for your natural teeth. Brush at least twice a day, using a non-abrasive toothpaste, plus floss at least once a day. The dental team also recommends that you use an antibacterial mouth rinse daily to maintain the durability of your crown and promote good overall oral health.
If you have a damaged tooth, you might be a candidate for a dental crown. Call the friendly office staff or book your appointment online today.