Dental Crowns & Bridges in Arlington WA
Dental crowns, or caps, are custom-crafted, single-tooth restorations made in a dental lab. They restore teeth with large cavities, chips, or cracks. Also, when large dental fillings fail, a tooth may require a crown instead of a new filling. Crowns can look, feel, and function like healthy, natural teeth.
Bridges, also known as crowns and bridges or bridgework, feature one or two replacement teeth attached between two dental crowns. They replace lost teeth and rely on healthy neighboring teeth for anchoring. Bridges are not removable; they are fixed in place.
Would You Make a Good Candidate for Crowns and Bridges Near Me?
Anyone qualifies for a dental crown, even children. The type of material used to fabricate a crown depends upon its location in the mouth, patient preference, and (potentially) insurance coverage.
We recommend stainless steel crowns for children. People who want to retain a white smile prefer porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM), or zirconia crowns. We also offer crowns made from precious metals, like gold and silver.
Crown and bridge prosthetics require two healthy teeth on either side of where the bridge will be affixed. In some cases, one healthy tooth will suffice, but the bridge will only be supported by a crown on one side. If a traditional bridge is not an option, patients may choose an implant-supported bridge.
What to Expect at Your Crown Appointment
After an examination of your mouth and x-rays, Dr. Momi will prepare your damaged tooth for a dental crown. Next, we’ll take an impression of the prepared tooth so that the lab technicians can fabricate your crown to fit perfectly over the tooth.
An impression of your closed mouth will show how your crown should fit against opposing teeth. Lastly, we’ll use a shade guide to determine the perfect coloring for your crown. You may wear a temporary crown until your final restoration is made.
After a few weeks, you’ll return to our Arlington, WA, dental clinic for dental crown placement. Dr. Momi will remove your temporary, then affix the custom crown with strong dental adhesive. She’ll also check your bite and make minor adjustments, if necessary.
What to Expect at Your Bridge Appointment
If you need bridgework, again, the dentist will take x-rays and examine your mouth. Our local dental lab will make your crown-and-bridge appliance. You will wear temporary crowns or a temporary bridge until the next appointment.
In a few weeks, your restoration will be ready for placement. Like crowns, bridges are permanently affixed with strong dental adhesive. Dr. Momi will check your bite and make adjustments, if needed.
How to Extend the Life of Your Restorations
Brush twice a day and floss your teeth once a day, at a minimum. Get checkups and cleanings every six months in our office. If you notice any abnormalities with your crown, bridge, other teeth, gums, or soft tissues, call us for an additional exam.
Finding and treating dental issues early can save you from the pain, hassle, and expense of needing more dental work later.
Call for Your Crown or Bridge Consultation
Have you lost one or more teeth? Do you have a severely damaged tooth? Crowns and bridges provide an excellent, customizable solution that can restore your oral health, comfort, and appearance. Call us now at (360) 435-4043 to reserve your appointment with Dr. Pav or Pindi Momi.