Dental Crowns and Bridges in Burlington Township, NJ

What are Dental Crowns and Bridges?

Crowns and bridges are dental restorations that have been used in modern dentistry for more than 100 years. Even though they’re frequently mentioned together, they’re quite different things:

Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a natural-looking cap that covers a damaged or decayed tooth. A crown restores your tooth’s shape, size, and appearance, making it easier to bite and chew. Dental crowns and bridges can be made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. Dr. Dorfner offers crowns made of porcelain and ceramic. These materials are tough, long-lasting, and mimic the color and light-reflecting properties of your natural enamel. Crowns are used in both general and cosmetic dentistry and can last more than 15 years with proper care.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between the remaining natural teeth or dental implants. It consists of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth or teeth in between. A dental bridge helps restore proper chewing function and reduces the risk of gum recession, bone loss, and tooth movement that may affect your bite. It also enhances the aesthetics of your smile as a replacement for missing teeth.

The Dental Crown Process

At Dorfner Dental Studio, you’ll visit our Burlington, New Jersey dental office for two appointments.

At your first visit, Dr. Dorfner examines your mouth and takes a series of X-rays. She administers a local anesthetic and prepares your tooth. Preparing the tooth involves carefully removing some enamel on the top and sides of your tooth to ensure a good fit. She then takes impressions and sends them to a dental laboratory, where specially trained technicians design and craft your custom dental crown.

A temporary crown will be placed while you’re waiting for your permanent crown to come back. When your crown returns from the lab in about two weeks, you’ll return for your second appointment, and it will be permanently cemented. This involves administering a local anesthetic and attaching your crown with dental bonding. Dr. Dorfner trims any excess material, polishes your teeth, and provides care instructions.

The Dental Bridge Process

Getting a bridge also takes two appointments. Dr. Dorfner prepares the teeth by removing a thin layer of enamel from the two healthy teeth adjacent to the gap in your smile. Just like a crown, impressions are taken and set to a dental laboratory for custom fabrication. At your second appointment, Dr. Dorfner will remove your temporary bridge and place the permanent one in a manner similar to inserting a crown.

Do Dental Bridges and Crowns Hurt?

Getting a dental crown or bridge is a quick and discomfort-free procedure. After you receive the restoration, you may experience increased tooth sensitivity, but that should subside within a few weeks. To minimize any discomfort, Dr. Dorfner recommends taking over-the-counter pain medication or applying a bag of ice to your cheek.

We understand that visiting the dentist can be daunting for patients who struggle with dental anxiety. That’s why Dorfner Dental Studio offers sedation dentistry, which includes options such as nitrous oxide and oral medications that help you feel more relaxed during dental procedures.

Caring for Dental Crowns and Bridges

Dental crowns and bridges last an average of 12-15 years, but it’s possible to extend their lifespan. To properly care for bridges and crowns, Dr. Dorfner recommends:

• Brushing your teeth twice daily
• Flossing your teeth before going to bed at night
• Avoiding bad habits like nail biting or opening packaging with your teeth
• Wearing a mouthguard during physical activity or if you grind your teeth
• Visiting our dental office in Burlington, NJ every six months for routine dental checkups and cleanings

If you have any questions about how to properly care for your bridge or crown, we’re happy to answer them.

Contact Us to Learn More About Bridges and Crowns in Burlington Township, NJ

At Dorfner Dental Studio, we’re dedicated to providing gentle, exceptional general and cosmetic dentistry services to all our patients. To learn more about dental crowns and bridges, schedule an appointment online, call 609-479-3757, or fill out our contact form today.