At Family Dental Associates, Dr. Peter Grieser, Dr. Tracy Sullivan and Dr. Kevin Yoder see a wide variety of patients. Many struggle with 
failing and missing teeth--as do many individuals across the nation. To give these people beautiful, complete smiles, the dentists often recommend tooth restoration and replacement with crowns and bridges. In Port Orchard, WA, Family Dental Associates is your best source for these modern prosthetics.
When a tooth is damaged
Many factors cause serious damage to a tooth. For example, there's:
- Oral trauma, resulting in a cracked or chipped tooth
- Extensive decay
- Dental abscess which affects a tooth's interior pulp (root canal therapy may precede restoration with a crown)
- Odd congenital shape
- Wear and tear from aging, teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism)
Whatever the cause, restoration remains better than tooth extraction. Loss of any tooth causes immediate bone and gum recession and compromises oral function and smile aesthetics.
For generations, dentists have placed dental crowns, or caps, to cover and protect compromised teeth. Porcelain is the current material of choice because of its durability and natural appearance.
To decide if a crown is right for you, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums and take digital X-rays to assess the health of the roots and bone structure. Also, he or she takes oral impressions, either with a special putty or digitally, to help the dental lab a custom-craft a crown with precise fit and bite.
The crown procedure involves removal of damaged tooth enamel and placement of a temporary restoration. After the new crown returns from the lab, your dentist will remove the temporary cap and replace it with the permanent restoration. Today's amazing adhesives ensure a durable bond.
When a tooth is lost
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research maintains that the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States is periodontitis, or advanced gum disease. Whether this applies to your smile gap or not, consider replacement with fixed bridgework from Family Dental Associates. Made of one, two or more adjoining artificial teeth and supported by dental crowns, bridges in Port Orchard fill gaps to restore appearance and oral function.
Additionally, some bridgework may be supported by:
- Dental implants inserted directly into the jaw bone
- Resin-bonded wings or retainers (Maryland bridges)
- Crowns on just one side of the appliance (cantilevered bridge)
Whatever your need, your dentist determines the best kind of appliance and ensures quality materials and craftsmanship.
Caring for Port Orchard crowns and bridges
When considering crowns and bridges, think about your oral hygiene habits. If you routinely brush and floss and get six-month exams and cleanings at Family Dental Associates, you're likely a good candidate. Also, treat your restorations gently--no chewing ice cubes, opening bottles with your teeth and other actions which could cause damage.
Find out more
Join the multitude of people who enjoy complete smiles through crowns and bridges from Family Dental Associates in Port Orchardd, WA. Contact a team member to arrange your consultation: (360) 895-4321.