Are Bridges and Crowns Painful? Treatment Duration and How They Are Attached

When it comes to restoring your smile and regaining full dental functionality, fixed prosthetic treatments like dental crowns and fixed bridges are incredibly effective. At Minty Fresh, we often hear questions about the process, how long it takes, and whether it is painful. If you’re searching for dental crowns near me or dentistry bridges in your area, this blog will give you the information you need to feel confident about your treatment. For any further questions, feel free to call us at (305) 442-6422.

Is the Placement of Bridges and Crowns Painful?

One of the most common concerns patients have when considering bridges and crowns is whether the process will be painful. The good news is that the procedure is typically not painful at all. Your dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the treatment area, ensuring that you feel little to no discomfort during the procedure.
You may feel some pressure as the dentist prepares the tooth or teeth, but this sensation is far from painful. Once the anesthesia wears off, some patients may experience mild soreness or tenderness around the treated area. This discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and subsides within a few days. Our skilled dentists at Minty Fresh will make sure you feel comfortable every step of the way.

How Long Does It Take to Complete a Crowns and Bridges Treatment?

The time required to complete a crowns and bridges treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case. Generally, the entire process takes about two visits to our office. During the first visit, the dentist will prepare the affected teeth by removing a small amount of enamel to make space for the crowns or bridge. Impressions are then taken to create customized restorations.
Between visits, a temporary crown or bridge may be placed to protect the teeth. The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where your permanent restorations are crafted to fit your teeth precisely. This can take about one to two weeks. Once your permanent dental crowns and dentistry bridges are ready, you will return for the second appointment to have them securely bonded.

How Are Bridges and Crowns Attached to the Teeth?

The key to long-lasting crowns and bridges lies in their secure attachment to the natural teeth. Crowns are typically cemented over a prepared tooth that has been shaped to accommodate the crown’s thickness. Bridges, on the other hand, rely on adjacent teeth called abutments for support. These abutments are also fitted with crowns, with a pontic (artificial tooth) suspended between them.
The bonding process involves using a strong dental adhesive or cement to ensure a stable and durable fit. Once positioned correctly, your dentist will use a special curing light to harden the adhesive, creating a secure bond. You can immediately start using your dentistry bridges and crowns after the procedure, although some caution is advised in the initial days.

Will My Crowns and Bridges Feel Natural?

Modern dental technology has come a long way in making bridges and crowns feel as natural as possible. At Minty Fresh, we use high-quality materials that closely mimic the color and translucency of natural teeth. After a brief adjustment period, your crowns and bridges will feel comfortable, and you will likely forget that they are not your natural teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How long do dental crowns and bridges last?
    With proper care, dental crowns and dentistry bridges can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or longer. Maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly can extend their lifespan.
  2. Can I eat normally with crowns and bridges?
    Yes, once your crowns and bridges are securely bonded, you can eat most foods. However, it’s best to avoid extremely hard or sticky foods that could compromise the restoration.
  3. Are crowns and bridges prone to staining?
    Crowns made from porcelain or ceramic are highly resistant to staining, unlike natural teeth. However, maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding foods that stain can help keep them looking their best.
  4. Do I need to follow special cleaning instructions?
    While brushing and flossing are crucial, you may need to use a special floss threader to clean under a bridge. Your dentist will demonstrate the best cleaning techniques during your visit.
  5. What should I do if my crown or bridge feels loose?
    Contact Minty Fresh immediately if your crown or bridge feels loose or dislodged. Avoid eating hard foods and visit us as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
  6. Is it normal to feel sensitivity after getting crowns and bridges?
    Mild sensitivity is common for a few days following the procedure, especially to hot or cold foods. This usually subsides quickly, but if it persists, contact our office.

Restoring Your Smile with Confidence

Getting bridges and crowns is a great way to restore both function and aesthetics to your smile. Whether you’re dealing with missing teeth or teeth that have been severely damaged, these restorations are designed to offer a long-lasting solution. Our expert team at Minty Fresh is here to guide you through the process with care and precision.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or to schedule your consultation. Call Minty Fresh at (305) 442-6422 today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!