Dental crowns and bridges don’t always go together for our Raleigh area patients

When a permanent tooth is lost, we can construct a bridge to fill the gap. Otherwise, there is a risk for several consequences. These include shifting teeth, plaque and tartar buildup, compromised chewing and speaking function, and gum disease. We would like to help you avoid these pitfalls of poor oral health, and can do so with an inlay-supported bridge.

Typically, it is thought that dental crowns and bridges go together. Raleigh area holistic dentist Dr. McMillan takes a different approach that is mindful of the need to preserve natural tooth structure. When a bridge is made up of two dental crowns and a pontic, it is necessary to reduce two healthy teeth. Using an inlay or onlay instead, the degree of modification is significantly decreased.

What are inlays and onlays?

Inlays and onlay are indirect restorations that are made in a dental lab. An onlay adds support to the chewing surface, as well as one or more of the raised points, or cusps. Inlays are bonded to the chewing surface within the cusps. These restorative fixtures, along with the pontic, are made of porcelain in order to maintain the most natural appearance. Without an underlay of metal, the bridge will not develop any dark lines over time, making this method ideal for areas near the front of the mouth.

Preparing for a bridge with inlay support requires minor reduction within the central part of the abutment teeth. Impressions or imaging will be performed to help us create a well-fitting inlay, and we will place a temporary restoration to support the tooth until the permanent bridge has been made.

One of the differences between placing crowns and placing inlays to support a bridge is that the final restoration is bonded into place, rather than cemented over the teeth. This process of curing bonding material into the tooth creates structural soundness that leads to longevity and a high degree of functionality.

Dental bridges continue to be an excellent treatment for tooth loss. To learn more about our technique, give us a call in Cary or Cornelius. We look forward to speaking with you personally about your dental needs.

Holistic Dental Centers in Cary and Cornelius, NC offer many general and cosmetic options, designed to protect patients’ oral health, as well as overall health and well-being.

Dr. Carl McMillan is a holistic dentist with a medical degree from the College of Dental Medicine of the Medical University of South Carolina. Due to his expertise, he was honored with the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) presidency. He is compassionate towards patients and committed to providing them with safe, toxic-free dental treatments to help them maintain a happy and healthy smile.

Dr. Luis Crespo obtained his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the West Virginia University School of Dentistry. An IAOMT member, he believes prevention is the best medicine and strives to educate both patients and parents on the benefits of maintaining a healthy mind, body, and spirit. He has served underprivileged communities across the world.

Dr. Erin Wilbanks graduated from Louisiana State University School of Dentistry in New Orleans with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. She is an accredited IAOMT member, is SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) certified and is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry.