Crowns and Bridges

Crowns and bridges are among the most popular treatments performed at Walnut Woods Dental in Walnut Creek, California, through the care of Ashley Kim, DDS. If you need restorative care, schedule a time to come in and meet with Dr. Kim and the team. Online booking allows you to set up an appointment any time of day, and you’re also welcome to call the office during normal business hours. 

What are dental crowns and bridges?

Crowns and bridges are versatile treatments that help maintain a healthy smile and a stable bite. 

Dental crowns

Crowns replace the visible surfaces of a tooth with durable materials like metal, resin, or porcelain. Crowns protect teeth weakened by chips, cracks, or decay. They also improve cosmetic issues like discoloration and irregularities in the size or shape of teeth. 

Dental bridges

A dental bridge uses two dental crowns to secure one or more artificial teeth in place. Bridgework replaces missing teeth using highly-crafted and natural-looking artificial teeth. 

If a crown or bridge is a good fit for your needs, Dr. Kim discusses your treatment options in detail, giving you everything needed to make an informed decision about your care. 

What is the process for getting dental crowns and bridges?

Getting a new dental crown begins with an injection of numbing medication to ensure you remain comfortable. Dr. Kim then removes a portion of your natural tooth tissue to make room for the crown. 

Impressions give the dental lab everything needed to fabricate a custom crown that fits perfectly with your adjacent teeth. Dr. Kim can secure a temporary crown to protect your prepared tooth until the new crown arrives from the lab. 

At that point, you return to have the crown checked for fit before Dr. Kim cements it in place. This completes your restoration, and your new smile is ready to share the same day. 

Dental bridges follow the same steps. If you need an extraction in preparation for your bridge, Dr. Kim performs that procedure first, giving your gums time to heal before moving forward with the bridge. You’ll have two crowns placed on the teeth adjacent to the gap in your smile. 

Do dental crowns and bridges require special care?

Once your crown or bridge is complete, there’s no need for special care. You simply brush and floss your teeth to remove plaque and bacteria. Dr. Kim shows you how to floss your bridgework. 

Dr. Kim checks your crowns and bridges during your routine dental exams. If there are any signs of concern, she explains your treatment options at that time. As always, avoiding chewing or biting down on hard items is important to avoid damage. 

If you’d like to explore dental crowns and bridges in greater detail, book a visit at Walnut Woods Dental online or by phone today.