To help support a false tooth that fills in a gap, 2 or more crowns are attached to the false tooth (pontic) and then the crowns are placed over teeth surrounding the gap to anchor the false tooth in its new position. The crowns placed on the surrounding teeth are called abutment teeth and they help the false tooth by keeping it in the correct position and increasing its strength when the patient bites. Dental bridges can be made from metals, porcelain, or a combination of materials. The 3 main types of bridges are:

  • Traditional bridges are a false tooth (pontic) surrounded on each side by a crown (abutment teeth).
  • Cantilever bridges are a false tooth surrounded on one side by 1 or more crowns.
  • Maryland bridges, also known as a resin-bonded bridge, are a false tooth supported by wings or framework that is bonded to the natural teeth.

“I recently changed dental offices and was refered to this office. I am very happy with the work and service they provide. Everyone in the office has been great and very helpful.”

– M. / Demandforce / Mar 09, 2011

WHAT TO EXPECT

Preparing and placing a dental bridge usually takes at least 2 appointments at the dentist’s office. During the first visit, the dentist will prepare the abutment teeth by filing them down to make room for the dental crowns. After the teeth are prepared, the dentist will take impressions of the teeth, which will be sent to a dental laboratory where experts will create a bridge, including the pontic and surrounding crowns for the abutment teeth. While the permanent bridge is being created, the dentist will place a temporary bridge over the patient’s teeth for protection. Once the custom-made bridge is returned to the dentist’s office, the dentist will remove the temporary bridge and cement the permanent bridge into place. The dentist will check and adjust the bridge to give the patient their best fit, but the patient may need to return in a few weeks to have their fit and bite re-checked.

TREATMENT AFTERCARE

Dental bridges can last 5 – 15 years, or longer with proper home came and regular exams and cleanings by the dentist. Patients can keep their bridges and natural teeth healthy by brushing twice a day, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash daily. Patients should make annual dental exams and bi-annual dental cleanings with their dentist to ensure the bridge is clean and in good condition.

ANTICIPATED COSTS

A traditional or cantilever bridge starts at $1,500 and can be over $12,000. Maryland bridge is $1,000 – $2,500. Most dental insurance carriers will cover some or part of the cost of the bridge, so the front office will consult with the patient’s insurance to get a better estimate of the patient’s out-of-pocket costs. The cost of the bridge will include the appointments for the impressions and fitting, plus any follow up visits needed to adjust the bite and fit.

FIX SMILE GAPS

If you avoid smiling to hide a gap in your teeth, call our office to schedule a consultation and learn about dental bridges and if they are right for you. Your dentist can tell you if a dental bridge can improve the appearance of your smile and give you a healthier mouth.

Crowns are a great way to cover damaged teeth to restore the tooth to its original size and shape. Not only does improved the appearance of the tooth, but it can also strengthen the tooth structure of teeth that can’t be effectively restored with other methods, such as fillings. San Diego, CA cosmetic dentists, Drs. Langenbach and Thomas, often use crowns for broken, fractured, and decayed teeth. The dentists might also use crowns to cosmetically enhance a tooth, repair a fractured filling, and also for teeth with large fillings or those that have undergone a root canal.

At their practice, Dr. Langenbach and Dr. Thomas offer multiple options, such as porcelain and even CEREC same-day crowns. Porcelain crowns are metal-free and tooth-colored and have the luster and natural look of a patient’s own teeth. They are also highly durable. Metal-free crowns leave out the mercury that’s traditionally used in crowns. CEREC same-day crowns uses advanced technology to make crowns in one visit compared to 2 for faster, more efficient results.

“I have always held you in high regard regarding your work as a dentist. You and your staff make my dental appointments a pleasure. ”

– F. / Demandforce / Feb 17, 2011

WHAT TO EXPECT

A dental crown usually takes 2 appointments to complete. During the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the tooth for the crown, take impressions of the tooth for the permanent crown, and place a temporary crown over the tooth to protect it. The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where a customized crown(s) will be created for the patient. Once the crowns arrive back at the dentist’s office, the patient can schedule an appointment to have their permanent crown(s) fitted and set by the dentist.

TREATMENT AFTERCARE

Patients do not usually have any pain after a crown is placed, but some patients experience discomfort or tooth sensitivity. Depending on the material, crowns can last from 7 – 40 years. Patients can extend the life of their crown by practicing good oral hygiene and visiting their dentist for regular exams and cleanings. If oral health is neglected, the tooth under the crown may develop a cavity or infection that will require more extensive treatment, like a root canal.

ANTICIPATED COSTS

The total cost of a dental crown will depend on the materials used, as well as the amount of teeth treated, their condition, size, and location. Porcelain over metal crowns are about $500 – $1,500 per tooth. Metal crowns costs from $600 – $2,500. All porcelain crowns are usually about $800 – $3,000 per tooth. The dentist will go over estimated costs and financing options during the patient’s consultation and the front office can check with the patient’s insurance to determine if any of their costs are covered.

PROTECT AND STRENGTHEN

If you are concerned about the condition of your teeth, schedule a consultation with the dentist to learn more about how crowns can help you. Everyone deserves a beautiful, healthy smile, so come in soon to find out how you can improve yours.