Should I Consider Crowns and Bridges?

Damaged or missing teeth pose more problems than you may think. Poor oral function, smile gaps and deterioration of gums and bone happen quickly when a tooth fails or is lost to extraction. What's the solution? Dr. A. Joshua Montgomery, your Springfield dentist recreates smiles with true to life dental crowns and fixed bridgework, saying goodbye to poor dental health.

What is a dental crown?

Decay, abscess or oral injury threaten tooth health. However, if a sufficient amount of healthy structure remains, you and your Springfield dentist may choose to protect that tooth with a porcelain crown.

Made of durable and realistic ceramic, a porcelain crown covers and supports remaining tooth structure above the gum line. Precisely crafted and fitted, a crown fills the space between adjoining teeth and ensures the weak tooth bites together with the opposing arch of teeth.

In addition, porcelain crowns cover the abutment posts on dental implants, today's premium tooth replacement option. After root canal therapy, your dentist usually places a crown over a restored tooth to make it totally functional once again.

What is bridgework?

A fixed, or permanent, bridge spans a smile gap composed of one or more adjacent missing teeth. Crowns anchor the pontic, or artificial, teeth to remaining natural teeth, providing wonderful smile aesthetics and normal oral function.

Most bridges are crafted from porcelain and as determined by Dr. Montgomery may be supported by dental implants which reside in the jaw bone. Implant-supported bridgework improves jaw bone integrity and is one of the most durable and long-lasting replacement options available.

What's right for you?

It depends on the details of your case. Dr. Montgomery will carefully evaluate your tooth or smile gap and offer a treatment plan which fits your needs and your budget. Whatever the solution, trust that your smile will look and perform at its very best.

Caring for crowns and bridges

Your hygienist will show you how to care for your restored tooth or tooth replacements. Brushing twice a day with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste is critical to oral health. Flossing targets bacteria-filled plaque, avoiding gun disease or decay under crown margins.

If you're diligent about in-home care and get your semi-annual professional cleanings and check-ups, your crowns or bridgework can last for many years.

Contact us

If a crown or a bridge is on your horizon, don't delay. Arrange an informative consultation with Dr. A. Joshua Montgomery. Learn your options for a wonderful smile. Call (417) 883-2111 for an appointment in Springfield, MO.