Crown & Bridge in Spokane, WA

The primary purpose of a crown is to repair a tooth damaged due to decay or fractures, which helps restore the tooth’s function and appearance. A crown may also be placed on top of an implant to improve its look and natural feel. The crown resembles a cap that looks natural, helping the patient improve their smile without any obvious signs that they’ve had restorative work done. On the other hand, a bridge helps fill in the gaps created by missing teeth, restoring both the aesthetic appeal and the mouth's functionality. At Ash & Rowan Family Dentistry, crowns, and bridges can be made from various materials, including ceramic, gold, and metal alloys. These materials can blend seamlessly with the rest of the patient’s mouth for a natural look and feel.

Dental Crowns

A crown is a type of restoration that completely covers a tooth, restoring it to its standard shape and size. It is used to encase teeth that are cracked, broken, worn down, misshapen, or discolored. When a crown is placed over a tooth, it completely envelopes the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line. It then becomes the tooth’s new outer surface. Crowns are made of different materials and come in many different shapes. Regardless of the material, the crown is cemented into place, strengthening the tooth while restoring its shape and size.

The Benefits of Dental Crowns

If a large cavity threatens the health of a tooth, a filling won’t be enough to protect it from breaking. In this case, your dentist may recommend placing a dental crown over the tooth to strengthen and save it. A dental crown is also recommended after root canal therapy or when a large filling wears down over time or breaks. Once placed, your crown should last many years but may eventually need replacement. Regular exams can help ensure the longevity of your restoration.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a device used to replace missing teeth and fill in gaps between teeth. It uses dental crowns as anchors to hold the prosthetic in the place where one or more teeth are missing. It is a permanent restoration solution and cannot be removed by the user.

The Benefits of Dental Bridges

There are several reasons why patients may need to replace one or more teeth with a dental bridge. The most common reason may be that the tooth structure has been damaged due to cavities or improper oral health care. This can result in the deterioration of the jawbone and gum tissue, making replacing the tooth more difficult. However, if the patient is still in good health, a bridge can be a viable option to restore the smile to normal. 

Another benefit of having a crown or bridge is that these restorations are highly durable and can last many years with proper care. For the best dental care, visit Ash & Rowan Family Dentistry at 5528 N Ash St, Spokane, WA 99205, or call (509) 325-1886.