Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges

At Pastrell, Buchanan & Hartzell General Dentistry in Grants Pass and the surrounding area, we offer dental treatments for tooth decay. The primary method for treating cavities is through fillings, which act as the first line of defense. However, if the decay is more severe, additional repairs may be necessary. In such cases, our dentists may recommend a dental crown treatment or a dental cap.

Dental crown treatment involves the use of a custom-sized cap that fits over the damaged tooth, helping to restore it. At our clinic, we provide dental crowns and restorations for patients with broken, damaged, or decaying teeth. If you are experiencing any issues with your teeth, we encourage you to contact us at 541-476-4199 to schedule an appointment and have your problems addressed promptly.

Dental crowns restore damaged teeth, improve appearance, and provide protection.

According to the American College of Prosthodontists, the most commonly used dental restoration is a single dental crown. Dentists utilize dental crowns in various treatment scenarios. These crowns serve to safeguard susceptible teeth from additional decay, as well as to conceal damaged teeth and deep fillings. They are also frequently employed to finalize dental implants or to conceal teeth that have undergone root canals. Dentists can collaborate with their dental laboratory and the patient to craft tailor-made dental crowns that flawlessly restore the shape and size of a tooth, resulting in outstanding outcomes.

Understanding the Function of Dental Bridges and Dental Crowns

Dental bridges are commonly used to replace missing teeth. In cases where a patient has a single missing tooth, dentists can restore it by creating a dental appliance that connects to the two neighboring teeth. To ensure the stability of the dental bridge, the dentist will need to reshape the adjacent teeth by removing a considerable amount of enamel. These reshaped teeth are then fitted with dental crowns, which act as anchors for the artificial tooth that completes the bridge.

The reasons why patients may need a dental crown are as follows:

Patients may choose dental crowns to prevent additional damage or decay to a tooth and preserve a visually appealing smile. Furthermore, crowns can help prevent tooth loss, which could potentially lead to further oral health complications and expensive dental procedures. Additionally, patients may find that crowns assist in maintaining a proper bite and preventing teeth from shifting.

Step-by-step Guide to Receiving a Dental Crown

Young woman smiling, pointing to cheeks against yellow background, dental health promotion.

The process of receiving a dental crown may require multiple appointments. Typically, the dental crown procedure is incorporated into a larger dental treatment plan, such as a root canal. Here are the steps involved in obtaining a dental crown:

  1. Prior to the Crown: Before commencing the creation of the dental crown, the dentist addresses any existing issues. This includes treating infections or cavities and replacing old crowns if necessary.
  2. Preparation: The tooth is prepared for the crown by shaving it down to create space. Impressions of the tooth are then taken and sent to the lab. Some patients may receive a temporary crown at this stage.
  3. Crown Delivery: Once the crown is ready, the patient returns to the dental office for placement. The dentist ensures that the crown fits properly and looks natural in the mouth. If everything is satisfactory, the crown is permanently affixed using dental cement.
Young woman smiling, pointing to cheeks against yellow background, dental health promotion.

Tooth Eruption Chart

Dental eruption chart displaying primary and adult teeth with labeled ages and tooth types.