Crowns

A crown is a permanent covering that fits over an existing tooth. Crowns are made of a variety of different materials such as porcelain, gold, acrylic resin, or a mix of these materials. Crowns are used when large filling wear out, a tooth is cracked, or when making a cosmetic improvement to the tooth. The treatment plan for a crown involves re-shaping the existing tooth to provide an ideal fit for a crown, making an impression of your tooth in order to create a custom-made crown, and sending that impression to an outside lab here in the United States to have your permanent crown made. This process can take anywhere from two to four weeks.

During the interim period the tooth will be placed in a temporary crown made of acrylic resin. When the permanent crown is received back from the lab, the temporary crown is then removed. After ensuring the custom-made crown has the proper fit, function, and look, Dr. Hooper cements it into place. Given proper care, your crown will last a lifetime.

Bridges

Fixed bridges replace missing teeth. They are most commonly porcelain and metallic-framed for strength. A bridge consists of a filler tooth that is attached to two crowns, which it over the existing teeth and hold the bridge in place. Bridges not only prevent the loss of chewing function, but also prevent shifting of teeth which can lead to bit and jaw joint problems.