Frequently Asked Questions

• How does a Dental Crown work? close

  By providing a protective cap over your fragile tooth, a Dental Crown will allow you to bite on the protective cap rather than your fragile tooth, which may otherwise break down from everyday wear and eventual tooth loss. Each crown is custom fabricated to match and blend in with your smile and individual bite.

• How is a Dental Crown fitted? close

  At your first appointment, your tooth will be reshaped on all sides and on the biting surface. Then, we take an impression of your tooth. This will allow the dental laboratory to properly design your custom fitted Dental Crown, so that it fits over the remaining enamel. At your second appointment, usually a few weeks later, the Dental Crown will be fitted and bonded in place using bonding cement.

• How long will a Dental Crown last? close

  Dental Crowns can still be subject to fracture and cavities, so it is important to look after them just as you would your natural teeth. If properly maintained, through good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, Dental Crowns can last for many years.

• Can a Dental Crown be repaired? close

  Dental Crowns are milled and shaped from a solid block of material, making them difficult to repair. Occasionally, a crown will chip and we can smooth and contour it without compromising the fit or appearance. However, if it collects food debris or interferes with the appearance of your smile, then it will need to be replaced. Any material added to a broken crown in an effort to patch it will unfortunately be unsuccessful, because it won’t create a lasting bond.

• How much does it cost to replace a missing tooth with a Dental Bridge? close

  There are several factors to take into consideration. For example, the number of teeth that need to be replaced, and how many teeth or implants will need to serve as an anchor. At Drouin Dental, we will discuss the financial options available to you when you come in for your consultation, and find options that fit both your budget and your aesthetic goals.

• Why do I need to replace a missing tooth? close

  When we lose a tooth it’s like knocking a brick out of a wall. At first nothing happens, but soon gravity and external forces take over and the wall starts to collapse. It’s the same with teeth: gravity and other forces win. The teeth either side of the gap begin to collapse inwards and the opposing teeth start to move. This results in malalignment of teeth, which in turn causes difficulty in cleaning, increasing the probability of gum disease and cavities, more wear and tear, along with cracks or splits due to uneven loading on tilted teeth. The longer you wait to replace missing teeth, the more complicated and costly replacement teeth become.

• How long does a Dental Bridge last? close

  t’s important to remember that although the Dental Bridge replaced a missing tooth, there are at least two natural ones that are still involved. These can still break or become decayed if not well cared for. When maintained properly, a Dental Bridge can last anywhere from 5 to twenty years.

• Can you fix a Dental Bridge? close

  The only way to properly fix a Dental Bridge is to replace it. Since it is made from one solid piece of material, patching or adding to the restoration usually does not last. To prevent damage, we recommend having your Dental Bridge made out of a solid piece of ceramic for added durability.