Can crowns be whitened?

Unfortunately, no. The color of a crown will not change with whitening. Let your doctor know if you plan to have your teeth whitened before placement of a crown or bridge.

Can I eat normally even when I wear a crown or bridge?

Yes, you can treat a crown or bridge just like your natural tooth!

Can my tooth still get cavities if it has a crown or bridge?

Yes!! It is important to maintain good oral hygiene around a crown or bridge. Bacteria that sticks to the edge between the crown/tooth is where cavities frequently form. If you get a cavity around a crown the crown will need to be replaced to prevent further decay under the crown.

Crown and Bridge Burbank Treatments for Missing Teeth

Dr. Nicole G. Nalbandian (DDS, MS)

Dental Crown and Bridge Treatment: What are they? When do we need them?

Crowns and Bridges are what we refer to in dentistry as ‘indirect’ restorations. Crowns are often used to ‘cover’ or ‘cap’ a tooth while a bridge is used to replace a missing tooth (or teeth).

Your dentist may recommend a dental crown in any of the following scenarios: 1. Your tooth has a fracture or has broken in a way that a simple filling is not enough to repair it. 2. Your tooth has had a large cavity. 3. You have had a root canal and now a crown is needed to keep your tooth strong.

In the event that a patient has a missing tooth (or missing teeth) a bridge is a great option to replace the missing tooth. Previously, this was our only way to permanently replace missing teeth. In modern dentistry, we now have the option to choose from placement of a bridge or an implant. Each option offers a unique set of advantages. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Nalbandian to learn more about which option might be best for you!

Dental Crowns

Dental Bridges

What Materials are Crown and Bridges Made From?

Full metal: This can be gold or an alloy of metals designed to be durable and highly effective. Although metal crowns and bridges were the norm decades ago, we now have equally functional and highly esthetic options.
Porcelain fused to metal (PFM): This type of restoration has a metal lining substructure to provide strength and a porcelain covering that provides a highly esthetic tooth-colored restoration.
Emax/Porcelain: This is a highly cosmetic option often reserved for single unit crowns but not frequently used for bridges due to its limitations in strength.
Zirconia: This is a highly versatile, metal free, and tooth colored material. Zirconia is praised for its strength and ability to provide optimal esthetic results.

Meet Our Doctor

Dr. Nalbandian is a general dentist focused on delivering the highest quality cosmetic and restorative dentistry to her patients. She believes that exceptional dental care begins with the doctor-patient relationship and customizing treatment to meet the needs of each individual patient.

In an ever-changing world of dental technology and techniques, Dr. Nalbandian is an avid learner. She is committed to continuing education courses which allow her to offer patients the most advanced care. Her goal is to bridge long-lasting solutions with the most conservative treatment.

Since completing her dental training, Dr. Nalbandian has embraced a rewarding career as an exceptional dental clinician. She has also returned to her alma mater, UCLA School of Dentistry, to teach future generations of dentists and currently serves as a faculty member at the WEST Los Angeles Dental Hygiene program.

Those who know Dr. Nalbandian quickly come to realize that dentistry truly is one of her greatest passions. When she is not in the clinic or teaching, Dr. Nalbandian enjoys practicing yoga and getting outdoors.

SCHEDULE WITH DR. NALBANDIAN

How Long Do Crowns and Bridges Last?

The longevity of any restoration is dependent on several factors including 1. Operator skill, 2. Material strength and 3. Patient hygiene/care.

When done correctly and proper hygiene protocols are adhered to, crowns and bridges are designed to last 10-15 years on average. It is not uncommon to see a crown last 20+ yrs.

Contact Dr. Nalbandian and her team if you think you may be in need of a crown or bridge to learn more about your restorative options.

FAQ

Can crowns be whitened?

Unfortunately, no. The color of a crown will not change with whitening. Let your doctor know if you plan to have your teeth whitened before placement of a crown or bridge.
Can I eat normally even when I wear a crown or bridge?

Yes, you can treat a crown or bridge just like your natural tooth!
Can my tooth still get cavities if it has a crown or bridge?

Yes!! It is important to maintain good oral hygiene around a crown or bridge. Bacteria that sticks to the edge between the crown/tooth is where cavities frequently form. If you get a cavity around a crown the crown will need to be replaced to prevent further decay under the crown.