Ceramic Crowns and Bridges

Dental Crowns and Bridges in Palmdale, CA – Restoring Your Smile at Dr. Markarian’s Office

At Dr. Markarian’s Dental Practice, we are committed to restoring the functionality and aesthetics of your smile. Our crowns and bridges are custom-designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing durable solutions for damaged or missing teeth.

What Are Dental Crowns and Bridges?

Dental Crowns: A crown is a cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are used to protect a weak tooth from breaking, restore a broken tooth, cover and support a tooth with a large filling, hold a dental bridge in place, or cover a misshapen or severely discolored tooth.

Dental Bridges: A bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. Bridges span the space where the teeth are missing and are cemented to the natural teeth or implants surrounding the empty space. These teeth, called abutments, serve as anchors for the bridge, while a replacement tooth, called a pontic, is attached to the crowns that cover the abutments.

Benefits of Crowns and Bridges

  • Restoration of Dental Functionality: Crowns and bridges help restore your ability to chew and speak properly.
  • Enhancement of Oral Health: By filling gaps and restoring damaged teeth, they help maintain oral health and prevent teeth from shifting.
  • Aesthetic Improvements: They provide a natural appearance and can improve the brightness of your smile.

The Procedure: What to Expect

Consultation and Planning: Your journey begins with a consultation at Dr. Markarian’s office, where your dental health will be assessed, and a treatment plan will be developed.

Preparation: For a crown, the tooth is reshaped to ensure a proper fit. An impression of your tooth is then made to create a custom crown. For a bridge, impressions of the teeth surrounding the gap are taken to ensure the bridge will fit perfectly.

Fabrication: The impressions are sent to a dental lab where your crown or bridge is custom-made. Temporary crowns or bridges may be placed while you wait for the permanent ones.

Final Placement: Once your new crown or bridge is ready, it will be checked for fit and color, and then cemented in place.

Post-Treatment Care

Maintaining crowns and bridges is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential. Avoid chewing hard foods and ice to prevent damage to your new restorations.

Why Choose Dr. Markarian for Crowns and Bridges?

Dr. Markarian combines advanced dental technology with a meticulous approach to restorative dentistry. His expertise ensures that each crown and bridge is crafted with precision and designed to match the aesthetics of your natural teeth, providing a comfortable and lasting solution.

Whether you need a crown to restore a damaged tooth or a bridge to replace missing teeth, Dr. Markarian’s Dental Practice offers expert solutions tailored to meet your needs and restore your smile. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns and Bridges

What is the difference between a crown and a bridge?

A dental crown is a cap that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. A bridge, on the other hand, is used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent teeth or implants. The American Dental Association provides a detailed explanation of each procedure [American Dental Association].

How long do dental crowns and bridges last?

With proper care, dental crowns and bridges can last many years. On average, they can last between 5 to 15 years, but many last longer depending on the material used and oral hygiene practices. The longevity of these restorations is discussed in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry [Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry].

Are crowns or bridges noticeable?

Modern crowns and bridges are designed to match the color and appearance of your natural teeth closely. They are made from materials such as porcelain or ceramic, which can be matched to the shade of your tooth enamel, making them virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.

What care is required for crowns and bridges?

Crowns and bridges require the same level of care as your natural teeth. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups and cleanings. It is also important to avoid chewing hard foods and ice to prevent damage. The Oral Health Foundation offers additional care tips [Oral Health Foundation].

Can anyone get crowns or bridges?

Most people can benefit from crowns or bridges if they have damaged or missing teeth. However, the suitability depends on several factors, including the condition of your teeth and gums. Dr. Markarian will conduct a thorough examination to determine if crowns or bridges are the best solution for your dental needs.

How many visits does it take to complete a crown or bridge?

Typically, it takes two to three visits to complete a crown or bridge. The first visit involves preparing the teeth, taking impressions, and placing a temporary crown or bridge. The second visit is when the permanent crown or bridge is fitted and adjusted. Occasionally, a third visit may be necessary for final adjustments.

What materials are used for crowns and bridges?

Crowns and bridges can be made from several materials, including porcelain, ceramic, gold, metal alloys, or a combination of materials. Porcelain or ceramic crowns and bridges are popular for their natural color and texture, which match natural teeth.

Are there any risks associated with crowns and bridges?

While generally safe, there are some risks associated with crowns and bridges, such as increased sensitivity, risk of decay, and the possibility of the crown or bridge becoming loose or falling out. Proper installation and regular dental care significantly reduce these risks.

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