Crowns and bridges are two of the most popular options to restore damaged teeth. At his self-named practice in Phoenix, Arizona, Michael W. Zacher, DDS, offers custom-made crowns and bridges for cracked, misshapen, and missing teeth. Call Michael W. Zacher, DDS, or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about crowns and bridges.
Crowns and bridges are dental restorations that can enhance the appearance and function of your teeth.
While crowns, or tooth-shaped caps, cover the visible portion of damaged teeth, bridges replace missing teeth. Crowns can function on their own or attach to dental bridges for a fully restored smile.
Dr. Zacher recommends bridges to replace missing teeth and crowns to:
Crowns and bridges color match to the natural shade of your teeth to blend in with the rest of your smile.
Dr. Zacher performs a comprehensive dental exam, which includes digital X-rays, before recommending crowns and bridges.
To prepare your teeth for restorations, Dr. Zacher files and reshapes your affected teeth. Finally, he takes impressions to create your custom-made restorations.
It takes about 2-3 weeks to make crowns and bridges. While you wait, Dr. Zacher fits you for temporary restorations to protect your teeth. He cements your crowns and bridges in place at your final appointment.
While crowns fit directly over damaged teeth, traditional bridges consist of two crowns with an artificial tooth in the center. The crowns fit over your abutment teeth to stabilize the bridge.
Crowns and bridges can last for 10 years or more with proper care. While these restorations are durable, avoiding hard, chewy, and sticky foods is essential to protect your crowns and bridges.
Bi-annual teeth cleaning at Dr. Zacher’s office can also help identify early signs of damage or decay that diminish the lifespan of your restorations.
Crowns and bridges are available in a variety of materials. Ceramic, porcelain, and porcelain-fused-to-metal are just a few popular materials that the team may recommend.
Dr. Zacher always performs a comprehensive exam to determine the right material for your crowns and bridges.
To learn more about crowns and bridges, call Michael W. Zacher, DDS, or schedule an appointment online today.