Marc Alber, DDS

Bridges & Crowns
Boulder, Colorado

Restoration
Crown and bridgework, also described as restorative dentistry, involves the restoration of natural teeth that have been damaged, decayed or lost. Crowns and bridges can correct missing teeth, bite dysfunction, and functional or structural problems. A crown can restore an individual damaged tooth back to its original form and function, while a bridge can replace one or more teeth. These restorations are cemented onto the teeth and are referred to as "fixed" dentistry rather than using a removable appliance or partial denture.

Bridges
Crowns

Bridges
When one or more teeth are missing, the remaining teeth can drift out of position, which can lead to a change in the bite, the loss of additional teeth, decay and gum disease.

When tooth loss occurs, we may recommend the placement of a bridge. Designed to replace missing teeth and support surrounding teeth, a bridge is a grouping of interconnected crowns. Held in place by two crowns, a bridge can reduce the risk of gum disease, help correct bite issues and even improve speech. If performed by a well-trained cosmetic dentist, bridges are effective and durable and can last an excess of 10 years.

How is a bridge constructed?
We begin bridgework by filing down the teeth to accommodate the crowns. Then we will take impressions of the teeth, which will then be used to create the crowns.

We prepare and shape the teeth on each side of the space to receive crowns. Then, we make an impression of the area. Once the crowns are finished, the false tooth (or teeth) will be bonded to them. When the bridge is ready, a temporary (or transitional) bridge is formed and fitted in the area. During your next visit (usually a week later), the temporary bridge is removed and the permanent fixed bridge is placed, adjusted and cemented into place.

Once the bridgework is permanently cemented, you may again enjoy your favorite foods with confidence. Bridgework allows you to avoid that sunken-in appearance caused by missing teeth and stabilizes that area of the dental arch to give you a more youthful appearance, allowing you to smile once more with confidence.

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Crowns
A crown is a prosthetic placed over an existing tooth to create a smoother, cleaner look and enhance strength and durability. When a tooth is fractured, has an outdated filling, or is severely damaged by decay, the placement of a crown may be recommended. Crowns strengthen and protect the remaining tooth structure and can improve the appearance of your smile. Types of crowns include the full porcelain crown, the porcelain-fused-to-metal crown and the all-metal crown.

The crown restores the appearance of your teeth and can affect the muscles in your face. A crown will be the same size and shape as the natural tooth. As a result, it will keep your jaw and bite aligned; it will also make sure that other teeth don't shift locations or take on a greater share of the work of biting and chewing.

Crown Technology
Today’s well-constructed crowns looks and functions just like natural teeth. Crown technology has improved over the years, and older, less lifelike crowns can be replaced with new ones. They are a great option when the damage or decay is so extensive that filling materials cannot make the tooth strong enough. Crowns are most often made of gold or porcelain but can also be made of stainless steel. Porcelain crowns are carefully matched in color so they cannot be distinguished from your natural teeth. Many people choose porcelain crowns for the cosmetic appearance and the confidence it gives them. New materials are now available that allow the use of "all-ceramic" crowns in some cases. Some people prefer not to use gold because it stands out from the other teeth in appearance. At the same time, if the crown is on a back molar, some people feel the cosmetic issue is not a big one. We will discuss the types of materials available if a crown is recommended.

Protect Your Crown
Once your crown is in place, make sure the area is brushed well and that you floss below the gum line. While the crown protects your remaining tooth from further decay, you must protect the base of the crown from bacterial growth and gum disease. Regular brushing and flossing will ensure that your crown will be in place for years to come.

We may recommend a crown if your tooth has enough decay that it cannot hold a filling, or if your tooth is cracked or broken and in danger of cracking down into the root if left unattended.

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If you are considering a crown or a bridge in Boulder, please call or e-mail us today to schedule your initial consultation.