Dental crowns and bridges have been common forms of restorative treatment for decades. Even these often-used prosthetics have undergone significant changes throughout the course of dental history. Crowns, which are used to cap teeth that have been weakened by damage or disease, can now be made out of a variety of materials, where they were once formed only of gold or metal alloy. In our Los Angeles dental practice, we craft crowns using CEREC technology.
Dental bridges are used as a treatment for missing teeth, whether lost naturally or extracted. As you would expect, a bridge is an appliance that fills the gap left by a lost tooth. It is important to address this condition, even if the gap is located in the back of the mouth, because teeth will gradually shift, posing a threat to the attractiveness of the smile.
To restore chewing function and beauty to the smile, a bridge is put into place between the teeth on each side of the gap. These teeth, through bridgework, become anchors that stabilize the artificial tooth, called a pontic. Dr. Mungcal has years of training and experience in placing dental bridges, and begins the design process by making impressions of the prepared anchor teeth. A mold of these teeth is used in the dental lab, where two crowns are made and fused to an artificial tooth, which lies in the middle.
Due to the structure of the dental bridge, and the skill with which anchor teeth are prepared and fitted with crowns, this appliance can last for years with effective oral hygiene and regular dental care. It is important to maintain good brushing and flossing habits around a dental bridge to prevent cavity formation or gum disease around crowned teeth.
Dental implants are another common form of tooth replacement today. Ideal in most situations, implants may not be possible for every patient. When tooth replacement is necessary, Dr. Mungcal will discuss the details of various options, and restore your smile to its most functional state, using a dental bridge when most suitable.
If you need tooth replacement to restore your smile, we have solutions that will work for you. Contact our downtown Los Angeles dental office for your consultation.
