A crown (or cap) is a covering that covers the entire tooth, including the sides. It's purpose is to strengthen the tooth structure and to restore the tooth to its original shape and size.

Although crowns can be made from different materials such as porcelain, gold or acrylic resin, porcelain (which is tooth colored) crowns  are the most popular.   Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color of your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile. 

Why get a Crown?

When a tooth is broken or fractured, severely worn down or decayed the solution is to get a crown. Crowns are strong but will not necessarily last a life-time. The average life-expectancy is about 10 years. A crown is made in a dental laboratory and then cemented onto your tooth by the dentist. Often when your tooth is to get a crown, a root canal is also done to minimize or eliminate the chance of a having a later tooth infection which would then necessitate the removal of the crown.

What is involved in getting a Crown? 

This normally requires two visits.  The first visit involves making molds of your mouth, preparing your tooth for the crown by removing any decay and shaping it so that the new crown will fit and finally cementing on a temporary crown which protects the tooth while your permanent crown is made. On your second visit, the temporary crown is removed, the tooth is cleaned and then the new crown is cemented into place.

To see a video on this click here.

BRIDGES

A bridge is a replacement tooth that is cemented permanently in your mouth. It fills a space that a tooth previously occupied.

A bridge may be necessary to:   

•        Prevent your teeth from shifting which can lead to possible jaw problems and bite problems.
•        Maintain a healthy and vibrant smile

There a different types of dental bridges. The most popular and consists of a filler tooth that is attached to two crowns, which fits over the existing teeth and holds the bridge in place. The "Maryland" bridge is commonly used to replace missing front teeth and the "Cantilever" bridge is often used when there are teeth on only one side of the span.

Irina Rodriguez, D.D.S.

(Serving Ojai, Lake Casitas, Santa Paula, Oxnard, Ventura, Carpinteria)

117 Pirie Rd., Suite A

Ojai, CA  93023

Phone: (805) 646-3700 Emergency: (805) 415-4478

irinarod@sbcglobal.net