Dr.Don Mungcal is a dentist in the Los Angeles, California area at Downtown Dental who is dedicated to helping patients achieve the smiles they’ve always wanted. Patients may deal with various dental concerns that may negatively impact their teeth and gums throughout their lifespan. Patients who need restorations will want to ask a professional about the benefits of using repairs, including dental crowns and bridges, to improve the natural smile’s health, wellness, and function.
What are dental crowns?
Dental crowns are restorations fabricated by a dental laboratory to cover a natural tooth. Also known as “caps,” these are typically used to repair teeth that have been damaged or negatively affected by cavities or certain oral health procedures. For example, a tooth that has had to have a large filling placed may not be nearly as strong as a tooth that has not been affected in terms of structure. By placing a dental crown, the tooth has an extra layer of protection against biting and chewing forces. Another reason a dental crown may be placed is to protect a tooth that may become weak after procedures such as root canal therapy. This treatment may sometimes be necessary to avoid the permanent removal of a natural tooth but can leave the tooth susceptible to damage. Patients can strengthen the tooth with a dental crown and reduce the chances of further cracking or breaking.
Dental crowns are made to bond over the top of a tooth that has been prepared properly to eliminate bulk. When patients are assessed for a dental crown and decide this is the right option, their natural tooth will be prepared by removing the outside dental enamel. Then, an impression is taken of the tooth and sent to a dental laboratory to fabricate the final restoration. In the meantime, patients may have a temporary crown bonded in place. Within a few weeks, the new restoration is completed, and patients return for the removal of the temporary crown and the placement of the permanent one. The new restoration is made to match the color, shape, and size of the existing teeth so that it blends in seamlessly with the smile
What are dental bridges?
Dental bridges incorporate dental crowns to create their restoration. A bridge helps “bridge the gap” left behind by a missing tooth. When a tooth is extracted or lost, it leaves behind a space that needs to be repaired as soon as possible to avoid unwanted shifting of the existing teeth. Placing a dental bridge can restore the area and improve chewing, biting, and speaking efficiency. Dental bridges include dental crowns on each end fused to false teeth called pontics. This creates a single restoration that the dentist can bond into place using the adjacent teeth for support. Dental bridges are an excellent option because they are more permanent than a denture (such as a partial denture) but less expensive than other permanent options, such as dental implants. Dental bridges are also covered in part or whole by most dental insurances, making them an accessible choice for many of our patients on a tighter budget. Dr. Don Mungcal will assess the smile and make recommendations for patients who are faced with tooth loss and unsure which solution is best for their situation. Dental bridges are often an excellent choice for our patients.
What are the benefits of restorations through Dr. Don Mungcal?
Receiving dental restorations with the team of Downtown Dental includes many benefits. Restorations are:
- Economical
- Natural looking
- Fast
- Durable
Learn more about dental crowns and bridges at Downtown Dental!
Dr. Don Mungcal and his staff are here to help patients achieve the smile they’ve always wanted, even if it means using dental restorations such as bridges and crowns.
Our professionals are conveniently located at 255 South Grand Avenue, Suite 204, and can be reached for an appointment by calling 213-863-9464.
Our team can make recommendations for patients needing better oral health and wellness with a dedicated professional ready and willing to take the journey alongside them!
