A crown is a fixed covering that fits over a tooth that is decayed, damaged or cracked. A crown functions like a hard hat or helmet to protect the tooth. Crowns are made of a variety of materials such as porcelain, gold, acrylic resin or a combination of these materials. Porcelain generally has the most natural appearance, although it is not the most durable of the options available.

The treatment plan for a patient receiving a crown involves:

• Numbing the tooth to remove the decay in or around it.
• Re-sculpturing the tooth to provide an ideal fit for the crown.
• Making an impression of the patient's teeth to create a custom-made crown.
• Making a temporary crown out of acrylic resin and fitting it onto the tooth for use during the interim period while the permanent custom-made crown is being created (usually two to three weeks).
• Removing the temporary crown and fitting the permanent one onto the tooth.
• After ensuring that the crown has the proper look and fit, cementing it into place.

This procedure generally requires two to three visits over a three to four week period. Once the procedure is completed, proper dental hygiene, including daily brushing and flossing, is required to maintain healthy, bacteria-free teeth, gums and crown.

Bridges

A bridge is a dental prosthesis that fills a space that a tooth previously occupied.

A bridge may be necessary to prevent:

• Shifting of the teeth that can lead to bite problems (occlusion) and/or jaw problems and resultant periodontal disease.
• Safeguarding the integrity of existing teeth and helping maintain a healthy, vibrant smile.

A fixed bridge consists of a tooth that is attached to two crowns which fit over the existing teeth and hold the bridge in place.