Crowns & Bridges Specialist
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Sunrise Dental
General Dentists, Emergency Dentists & Periodontists located in Shoreline, WA
Crowns and bridges can solve many different problems with the teeth. From missing teeth to worn and weakened teeth and beyond, crowns and bridges are excellent long-term dental restoration solutions. Dr. Chang and Dr. Kalhan, the dentists at Sunrise Dental in Shoreline, Washington, have the skills and experiences that deliver beautiful smiles for their patients.
Crowns & Bridges Q & A
What are Crowns?
Crowns are restorations that cover the entire exterior of the tooth. Crowns conceal and protect the teeth in several different situations, including:
- After a root canal
- When a tooth is severely chipped, cracked, or broken
- When aging, grinding, or other factors wear down teeth
Crowns can be purely cosmetic, as well. For example, Dr. Sohn or Dr. Lee can place crowns to conceal very discolored teeth if teeth whitening isn't successful.
How Do You Take Care of Crowns?
Crowns last 10 years or more with proper care. Brush and floss every day, and see Dr. Sohn or Dr. Lee for check-ups and dental cleanings on a regular schedule to maximize crown longevity.
Crowns are durable, but they're also delicate in some ways. Use a soft bristle toothbrush to avoid scratches on the porcelain surface. Floss carefully, avoiding hard tugs that could pull the crown loose.
What are Bridges?
Bridges are replacements for groups of teeth. If you're missing more than one tooth, a bridge fills in the gaps -- even if those gaps aren't next to each other. Bridges usually have a biocompatible metal frame and porcelain prosthetic teeth.
Bridges are either removable or permanent. You take removable bridges out to soak them every night, much like dentures. Removable bridges use your surrounding natural teeth -- which usually have crowns installed -- for stability.
Dr. Sohn and Dr. Lcementnts permanent bridges, also called fixed partial dentures, into place. Implant bridges are a popular type of permanent bridges because our doctors implant them directly in the bone under the gums for extra stability.
How Do You Take Care of Bridges?
Bridges last 10 years or more with proper care. Brush and floss daily, and have regular check-ups and teeth cleanings with Dr. Sohn or Dr. Lee for optimal lifespan. Avoid challenging foods -- especially chewy or hard foods -- with removable bridges, as this can cause dislodging and damage.
Treat permanent bridges like natural teeth, but use extra caution with tough foods. As with natural teeth, avoid eating ice, popcorn kernels, or other non-food items.
If you want to enhance your smile while improving teeth function, crowns and bridges may be good options. Make an appointment now using the online tool or call Sunrise Dental for help.
