Porcelain Dental Crowns & Bridges in Houston

Dental crowns and bridges are excellent restoration options available to assist with missing or damaged teeth. At Trinity Dental Centers our dental staff will work with you to discuss the options available to best treat your oral care needs.

What are dental crowns used for?

A crown is usually used to cover a damaged tooth, resulting in a stronger tooth. Crowns are also placed on implants to give them a tooth-like appearance and functional use. Porcelain or ceramic are typically used as materials for crowns since they mimic the look of natural teeth. Other materials include gold, acrylic, and metal alloys. Because metal alloys are stronger than porcelain, they may be suggested for back teeth. Your Trinity Dental dentist may advise on a dental crown to protect a fractured tooth, cover an implant, attach a bridge, or cover a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy.

When is a dental bridge needed?

If you are missing one or more teeth, your dentist may recommend a dental bridge. Gaps made from missing teeth can cause existing teeth to rotate or shift in a way that creates misalignment, a bad bite, and can also lead to gum disease.

Bridges cover the area where the teeth are missing by cementing to the natural teeth or implants surrounding the empty area. These teeth are called “abutments” and they provide as support for the dental bridge. A replacement tooth called a “pontic” is then fixed to the crowns covering the abutments. Like crowns, you have your pick of materials when it comes to your dental bridges. At Trinity Dental Centers, your dentist will help you decide which bridge is best for you based on a few factors, such as the location of your missing tooth, its use, and cost considerations.

How are dental crowns and bridges made?

Before the crown or bridge is created, your Trinity Dental dentist will reduce the size of your actual tooth to make space for a perfect fit. After reducing the tooth, your dentist will take an impression to get a precise and accurate mold for your crown or bridge. If you choose a porcelain crown or bridge, your dentist will decide on the right shade to properly match the color of your teeth.

How long will my crown or bridge last?

Even though crowns and bridges are meant to last, it is important that you do your part and practice good oral hygiene habits. Tooth decay or gum disease can lead a crown or bridge to loosen up or fall out.

Visit Trinity Dental Centers for regular dental exams and cleanings so that we can take preventative measures and ensure a long-lasting smile for years to come! Schedule an appointment today at one of our locations!