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Crowns And Bridges Specialist

Dr. Robert Davidson, DDS, PC

Bob Davidson, DDS

General Dentist located in Elburn, IL

If you lose or damage a permanent tooth, crowns and bridges can restore your smile and prevent additional complications. At Dr. Robert Davidson, DDS, PC, experienced dentist Bob Davidson, DDS, uses custom dental restorations like crowns and bridges to repair or replace teeth and encourage optimal oral health. To make an appointment at the practice in Elburn, Illinois, call the office to speak with a friendly member of the administrative team or click the online booking tool.

Crowns and Bridges

What are crowns and bridges?

Crowns and bridges are custom dental restorations. Though they’re frequently mentioned together, they serve two unique purposes:

Crowns

Crowns are caps that cover a damaged or severely decaying tooth. When bonded in place, they envelop the entire portion of your tooth above the gum line, allowing you to bite and chew confidently.

Bridges

Bridges fill a gap in your smile. They’re supported by two crowns or a metal framework and lower the risk of other more serious oral health problems like gum recession or bone loss. 

What does getting crowns and bridges involve?

At Dr. Robert Davidson, DDS, P.C., getting crowns and bridges takes two appointments:

First appointment

At your first appointment, Dr. Davidson conducts an oral exam and takes a series of digital X-rays. He uses X-rays to evaluate your oral health and to develop a plan for treatment.

Next, he administers a local anesthetic and prepares your teeth to receive a crown or bridge. If you’re getting a crown, Dr. Davidson removes the decaying or damaged portion of your tooth. If you’re getting a bridge, he removes a thin layer of enamel from the two teeth on either side of the gap.

After preparing your teeth, Dr. Davidson takes digital impressions. He sends your impressions to a dental laboratory that creates your custom bridge or crown.

Second appointment

When the lab finishes your restoration, you return to the office. Dr. Davidson administers a local anesthetic, lines up your crown or bridge, and bonds it in place. Then, he polishes your restoration, trims any excess material, and provides care instructions.

How long do crowns and bridges last?

The length of time that crowns and bridges last depends on several factors, including your lifestyle and commitment to optimal oral hygiene. Most crowns and bridges last 12-15 years, but it’s possible to extend their lifespan. 

Dr. Davidson recommends brushing and flossing daily and visiting the practice two times a year for an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning.

To prevent chips, cracks, or other damage to your restorations, wear a mouthguard if you play contact sports like hockey or rugby, and wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth. In addition, avoid bad habits like chewing on ice cubes and opening objects with your teeth.

To learn more about crowns and bridges, make an appointment at the practice of Dr. Robert Davidson, DDS, P.C. by calling the office to speak with a friendly administrative staff member or by clicking the online booking tool.