A tooth may have served you well for years and now have a large filling, a crack, or too little strength for another small repair. At our Rolling Road office, Dr. Maiurano will look at what has changed and explain why a crown may help you keep that tooth in use.
Why a crown instead of another filling?
A crown is a covering fitted over a tooth. It restores the tooth's shape and helps protect what remains underneath. Large fillings, fractures, wear, decay, or previous treatment can leave a tooth needing that support.
It's reasonable to wonder whether another filling would do. Dr. Maiurano looks at how much healthy tooth is left and the forces it takes when you chew, then explains the difference between the choices.
How a bridge works
A fixed bridge fills a gap with a replacement tooth supported by neighboring teeth. Planning it means looking closely at those supporting teeth as well as the space itself.
A bridge is one option. Depending on your mouth, a removable partial denture, an implant consultation with a specialist, or leaving the space alone may also be worth discussing. We'll explain what each would mean for the teeth you already have.
A bridge or a partial: everyday care
A fixed bridge stays in your mouth; only a dentist removes it. You clean around the supporting teeth and beneath the replacement tooth. A removable partial comes out for cleaning, and the natural teeth and gums still need daily care.
Both can replace missing teeth, but the daily routine is different. Tell Dr. Maiurano if handling small brushes or taking an appliance in and out would be difficult. She'll consider that alongside the health of your teeth and gums when you talk through the choices.
A crown for a dental implant
If an implant is part of your plan, Dr. Maiurano provides the crown that restores the visible tooth. Implant surgery is handled by a specialist. She'll discuss how the crown fits into that plan and help coordinate care with the clinician placing the implant.
Planning around your appointments
Before treatment begins, we'll explain the visits involved, whether you'll have a temporary restoration, and how to care for the tooth between appointments. Tell us about travel or other plans coming up so we can discuss the timing with you.
Getting the fit right
A crown or bridge should feel like it belongs in your mouth. Dr. Maiurano takes care with the shape and fit, checks how your teeth meet, and asks how the finished work feels to you. Those details matter when you're eating, talking, and going about your day.
When specialist care would give the tooth a better chance, she'll help coordinate the referral and explain how it fits into the rest of your care.
Caring for your crown or bridge
We'll explain how to clean around the finished work and care for it at home. At your regular checkups, we'll keep an eye on the restoration and the teeth and gums around it. A question about your crown or bridge is always welcome, even when you're simply here for a cleaning.
If you grind or clench your teeth, ask about nightguards to help protect your teeth. We'll discuss whether one makes sense for you.
Take time with the questions
Ask what could happen if you wait, how to care for the finished work, and what might affect how long it lasts. If you've already been advised to have a crown or bridge and still feel unsure, you're welcome to a second-opinion appointment at our Springfield office.