dental crown and bridges
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Dental crowns and bridges are two of the most common restorative dental treatments used to repair damaged teeth, replace missing teeth, and improve both the appearance and functionality of the mouth. These treatments offer durable, long-lasting solutions that restore oral health and help maintain a beautiful smile.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its size, shape, strength and appearance. Crowns cover the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gumline, providing protection and support for teeth that have been compromised due to decay, injury, or extensive dental work like root canal therapy.
Crowns are custom-made to fit the patient’s natural tooth and can be crafted from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of materials. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are especially popular for their natural appearance, blending seamlessly with the surrounding teeth.
When Are Dental Crowns Necessary?
Dental crowns are used in a variety of situations where a tooth needs to be restored or protected.
- To Protect a Weak or Cracked Tooth
Teeth that are cracked or weakened due to decay, trauma, or large fillings may require a crown to prevent further damage or breakage. The crown strengthens the tooth and shields it from additional stress. - After Root Canal Therapy
Following a root canal, the tooth is often weakened and more prone to fracturing. A crown is placed over the treated tooth to protect it and restore its function. - To Repair a Broken or Severely Worn Tooth
If a tooth is broken or has been severely worn down by grinding (bruxism) or acid erosion, a crown can restore its original shape and protect it from further wear. - To Support a Dental Bridge
Crowns are used to anchor dental bridges, which are prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. The crowns are placed on the teeth adjacent to the gap, securing the bridge in place. - To Improve theAppearance ofTooth
Crowns can be used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of teeth that are misshapen, discolored, or uneven. A crown can create a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
The Dental Crown Procedure
- Preparation
Missing teeth can make it challenging to bite and talk appropriately. This involves removing any decay or damaged areas and reshaping the tooth to create enough space for the crown to fit properly. If the tooth has been significantly damaged, the dentist may need to build up the tooth with a filling material before placing the crown.
After the tooth is prepared, an impression is taken of the tooth and the surrounding area. This impression is sent to a dental laboratory where the crown is custom-made to fit the patient’s tooth.
- Crown Placement
Once the permanent crown is ready (usually within two weeks), the patient returns to the dentist for the final fitting. The dentist will ensure that the crown fits comfortably and looks natural before securing it.
What Are Dental Bridges?
The bridge is anchored by dental crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap (called abutment teeth) and holds one or more false teeth (called pontics) in the space where the teeth are missing. Dental bridges restore both the appearance and function of the mouth, allowing patients to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.
Bridges can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and metal, with porcelain being a popular choice due to its natural, tooth-like appearance.
When Are Dental Bridges Necessary?
Dental bridges are recommended for patients with one or more missing teeth.Replacing missing teeth with a bridge offers several important benefits:
- Restores Function
Missing teeth can make it difficult to chew and speak properly. A bridge restores the ability to eat and speak normally by filling in the gaps left by missing teeth. - Prevents Shifting of Teeth
When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth may begin to shift into the empty space, leading to misalignment and bite problems. A dental bridge prevents this shifting by keeping the teeth in their correct positions. - Improves Appearance
Missing teeth can impact the appearance of your smile and facial structure. A dental bridge fills in the gaps, restoring a natural-looking smile and preventing the sunken appearance that can occur when teeth are missing. - Maintains Jaw and Bone Health
Teeth play an important role in maintaining the health and structure of the jawbone. While bridges do not stimulate the bone in the same way dental implants do, they help preserve the overall function and structure of the mouth.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
Like crowns, getting a dental bridge typically requires two appointments:
- Preparation
During the first visit, the abutment teeth (the teeth on either side of the gap) are prepared for crowns. This involves removing a portion of the enamel to create space for the crowns to fit over the teeth. Impressions of the teeth are taken and sent to the lab where the custom bridge and crowns are created. - Bridge Placement
At the second appointment, the temporary bridge is removed, and the permanent bridge is carefully fitted and adjusted for comfort. Once the dentist ensures the bridge fits properly, it is cemented in place.
Benefits of Dental Crowns and Bridges
Crowns and bridges offer numerous advantages, including:
- Restored Functionality
Whether you have a damaged tooth or a gap due to missing teeth, crowns and bridges restore the ability to eat, speak, and chew normally. - Natural Appearance
Both crowns and bridges are custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, creating a seamless and natural-looking smile. - Durability
They are strong enough to withstand the forces of biting and chewing, making them a reliable option for restoring teeth. - Improved Oral Health
Crowns protect weak or damaged teeth from further decay, while bridges prevent the shifting of teeth that can lead to misalignment and bite problems.
Caring for Crowns and Bridges
Taking care of your crowns and bridges is essential to ensure they last as long as possible.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Be sure to clean around the crowns and bridge, especially in the areas where the bridge meets the gums. - Avoid Hard Foods
Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candies, as these can damage your crowns or bridge. - Regular Dental Checkups
Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist will monitor the condition of your crowns and bridge to ensure they are in good shape and functioning properly.