Dr. Trevor Cosmetic and Family Dentistry
When a patient has one or more missing teeth, crowns or bridges can replace the teeth and restore the patient’s smile. Although a crown replaces only one tooth, bridges replace more than one. Dr. Trevor Tsuchikawa of Dr. Trevor Cosmetic and Family Dentistry offers crowns and bridges to patients with missing teeth. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Trevor, please call our office in Renton, Washington or use our convenient online booking tool today.
Crowns & Bridges Q & A
What is a Crown?
A crown is a dental device used to restore a tooth that’s too damaged or weak to be fixed with a filling. The crown is placed over the weak tooth, protecting it from additional damage.
What is a Bridge?
A bridge is a dental device used to replace two or more missing teeth in a row. The device is attached to two teeth located on either side of the gap.
How Does Dr. Trevor Attach Crowns and Bridges?
To attach a crown, Dr. Trevor begins by removing any decay from the tooth. Next, he files and shapes the tooth to prepare it for the crown. Once the tooth is ready to receive the crown, he takes a mold so the lab can create a customized device that fits well. In most cases, he’ll place a temporary crown on the tooth to protect it until your customized crown is available.
The process of placing a bridge is similar to the process used to place a crown. However, instead of preparing one tooth, Dr. Trevor prepares a tooth on either side of the gap in your mouth. He’ll then take a mold, and the lab will create a customized bridge.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Without anesthesia, the process of preparing your teeth for a crown or a bridge would be painful. However, Dr. Trevor administers anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. If you feel pain at any time during your procedure, tell Dr. Trevor so he can give you more medication.
How Many Appointments are Necessary?
Patients will typically need at least two appointments to get a bridge or a crown. During the first appointment, Dr. Trevor will prepare the tooth or teeth for the bridge or crown, and he’ll take a mold for the device. During the second appointment, he’ll cement the device into place.
Some patients may need more than two appointments to complete this process. For example, if you have teeth that need to be removed for a bridge, you may need extra appointments. Dr. Trevor will tell you how many appointments you’ll need before you begin treatment.