What Does Prosthodontics Mean?
Prosthodontics or prosthetic dentistry focuses on the aesthetic restoration and replacement of teeth to their proper form and function. Plus, we offer many prosthodontic treatments, mainly dental crowns and bridges in Dallas. However, these focus on oral rehabilitation and treat numerous conditions, such as:
- TMJ/TMD
- Traumatic injuries to the mouth’s structures
- Congenital or birth anomalies in teeth
- Snoring and other sleep disorders
- Oral cancer reconstruction
Crowns
Crowns improve your tooth’s shape and strengthen your teeth. Dentists often use crowns to cap, cover, and protect broken or worn teeth by securely cementing them in place. The crown then acts as a new outer surface, protecting the tooth from further damage. However, crowns are either either porcelain or metal, with porcelain being preferred for its strength and tooth-like appearance.
Bridges
Dentists commonly use bridges to replace missing teeth. They also help maintain your face’s shape and alleviate your bite’s stress. Furthermore, bridges bridge the gap where a tooth is missing by bonding an artificial tooth to the surrounding teeth. Bridges can utilize gold, alloys, or porcelain and can look just like regular teeth. Plus, they are a great option if you are missing a tooth and looking to fill the gap in your smile.
Steps Involved in Getting Crowns or Bridges
When considering dental crowns or bridges, it’s essential to understand the step-by-step process to ensure you achieve the best results for your oral health. This overview details the general steps involved in these procedures:
Initial Consultation and Examination:
The journey begins with an initial consultation with Dr. Moseley. During this visit, he will thoroughly examine your mouth, teeth, and gums. Dentists may take X-rays to evaluate the health of the tooth roots and surrounding bone. This assessment helps determine whether you’re a suitable candidate for a crown or bridge.
Treatment Planning:
We will discuss the available treatment options based on the examination results. If a crown or bridge is suitable, Dr. Moseley will outline the procedure, materials, and expected outcomes. Addressing any questions or concerns you may have during this stage is essential.
Tooth Preparation:
The dentist reshapes the tooth receiving the crown to accommodate the cap. This involves removing a portion of the tooth’s structure to ensure a snug fit for the crown. For a bridge, the adjacent teeth, often referred to as abutments, will also need to be prepared similarly, as they will support the bridge.
Impression Taking:
After tooth preparation, an impression of your mouth will be taken to create a precise mold. It’s vital for crafting a crown or bridge that fits perfectly and matches your bite.
Temporary Crown or Bridge:
While your permanent restoration is being crafted in a dental laboratory, a temporary crown or bridge will be placed to protect the prepared teeth. This temporary solution helps you maintain function and aesthetics while awaiting the final restoration.
Fitting the Permanent Crown or Bridge:
Once the custom-made crown or bridge is ready, we will remove the temporary restoration and check the fit of the new one. Adjustments may be necessary to ensure proper bite alignment and comfort. We will also match the restoration’s color to your natural teeth for a seamless appearance.
Cementation:
After confirming that the fit and color are satisfactory, the crown or bridge is permanently cemented into place. We use a strong dental adhesive to ensure the restoration stays secure and functions as intended.
Follow-Up and Care:
Post-procedure, we will provide care instructions to maintain your new crown or bridge. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, are essential to prolonging the life of your dental restorations. In some cases, a follow-up appointment may be scheduled to reevaluate the fit and function of the restoration.
Understanding these steps can help alleviate any anxiety about the process and empower you to make informed decisions regarding your dental care. Crowns and bridges are reliable solutions for restoring function and aesthetics, contributing to improved oral health and quality of life.
