In dentistry, crowns and bridges refers to the restoration of natural teeth that have been damaged, decayed or lost. A crown can be made to restore an individual tooth damaged by decay or fracture back to it's original form and function, while a bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. Both procedures require the use of a local anesthetic and the grinding or preparation of the teeth, with a crown, the damaged tooth, with a bridge, the adjacent teeth. With a fixed bridge, the prosthesis will span the area of a missing tooth, known as a pontic, while the two or more adjacent supporting teeth are called abutments. An impression is taken of the prepared area, and a temporary crown or bridge is placed.
Some slight discomfort is possible after the teeth are prepared.
Generally Advil or Tylenol will eliminate the discomfort. Warm salt water rinses can also speed the recovery of the gums in the area. The permanent crown will fit considerably better than the temporary crown, so the temporary crown gives little indication of how the final crown will fit or feel. It is important that the temporary crown or bridge stay in place until the final crown or bridge is placed. If the temporary should come off early, please call the office.