Crowns and Bridges: Things You Need to Know
When it comes to dental health, many people only think about brushing, flossing, and maybe the occasional visit to the dentist. However, sometimes your teeth need a little extra help beyond the regular maintenance. That’s where dental Crowns and Bridges come in.
If you're dealing with damaged, missing, or weak teeth, crowns and bridges are some of the most effective solutions in Restorative dentistry to restore both the function and aesthetics of your smile. In this post, we’ll break down what they are, how they work, and when they might be right for you.
What Are Dental Crowns and Bridges?
They are both dental prosthetics designed to replace or cover teeth. They serve different purposes, but they work hand-in-hand to provide structural support and aesthetic improvement.
- A crown, also known as a “cap,” is used to cover a damaged or weak tooth entirely. It's like a helmet for your tooth, protecting it from further decay or damage. Crowns are also used after Root canal treatment to protect a weakened tooth.
- Conversely, one or more lost teeth can be replaced with a bridge. It "bridges" the gap between two healthy teeth (or dental implants) by placing an artificial tooth in between. The teeth on either side of the gap serve as anchors for the bridge.
Both crowns and bridges are crucial for maintaining your mouth's structural integrity, preventing teeth from shifting and keeping your bite aligned. They also help preserve the natural look and feel of your smile, boosting confidence and oral health in one go.
When Are Crowns and Bridges Needed?
Now, you may be asking yourself, "How do I know if I need a bridge or a crown?" The truth is, there are several reasons a dentist might recommend either treatment. Let’s take a closer look at the common situations where crowns and bridges are used.
Crowns are typically recommended if you have:
- A badly damaged or decaying tooth.
- A tooth that has undergone Root canal treatment and needs reinforcement.
- A cracked or broken tooth that cannot be repaired with a filling.
- A misshaped or discolored tooth that affects your smile’s appearance.
Bridges are necessary when:
- You have one or more missing teeth and want a non-removable option.
- You want to prevent neighboring teeth from drifting into the empty space, which can cause alignment issues.
- You need to restore proper chewing and speaking ability after tooth loss.
- You're not a candidate for dental implants due to bone loss or other health concerns.
How Do Dental Crowns and Bridges Work?
Crowns and bridges both work by strengthening existing teeth or replacing missing ones. The process starts with preparing the teeth for the prosthetics.
For crowns, your dentist will:
- Examine and prepare the tooth by removing any decayed portions and shaping it to fit the crown.
- Take impressions of your teeth to ensure the crown is custom-made to fit perfectly.
- A temporary crown may be placed while your permanent one is being created in a dental lab.
- The permanent crown is then bonded to your tooth with a strong adhesive, restoring its structure and appearance.
For bridges, the process is a bit more involved:
- The teeth on either side of the gap (called abutment teeth) are prepared by removing a portion of the enamel so that crowns can be placed on them.
- The gap and the prepared teeth are imprinted.
- A custom bridge is made, consisting of crowns for the abutment teeth and one or more false teeth (pontics) that fill the gap.
- The bridge is then permanently cemented to the abutment teeth, restoring both functionality and aesthetics.
Both crowns and bridges can last for many years if cared for properly. However, just like natural teeth, they require regular dental visits and good oral hygiene to remain in top condition.
What Materials Are Used for Crowns and Bridges?
Crowns and bridges can be made from a variety of materials, each with its own advantages. The choice of material depends on the location of the tooth, your bite, and, of course, your personal preference.
- Porcelain or ceramic: These materials are the most popular for visible teeth because they can be color-matched to blend in with your natural teeth. Porcelain is especially durable and provides a natural-looking finish.
- Metal: Crowns made of metals like gold or alloy are extremely strong and durable, making them ideal for molars where the pressure from chewing is greatest. However, their metallic appearance means they’re not usually chosen for front teeth.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal: These crowns combine the strength of metal with the natural appearance of Porcelain Veneers, providing both durability and aesthetics.
- Zirconia: A newer option, zirconia crowns offer both strength and a tooth-colored appearance, making them a popular choice for patients who want long-lasting and natural-looking restorations.
- Composite resin: This material is less expensive than porcelain and ceramic, but it’s also less durable and may need to be replaced sooner.
Your dentist will recommend the best material for crowns and bridges based on your needs, your bite, and where they will be placed.
What Is the Procedure for Getting a Crown or Bridge?
The process for getting a crown or bridge is typically completed in two dental visits.
- First Appointment: During the first visit, your dentist will examine your teeth and prepare them for the crown or bridge. For crowns, this means shaping the damaged tooth to allow the prosthetic to fit securely. For bridges, the abutment teeth are also prepared. Your dentist will then take impressions and send them to a lab where the crown or bridge will be custom-made.
- Temporary Solution: You’ll usually leave the first appointment with a temporary crown or bridge to protect your teeth while the permanent one is being made.
- Second Appointment: Once your custom crown or bridge is ready, you’ll return for the final fitting. The temporary prosthetic is removed, and the permanent one is bonded to your tooth or teeth with dental cement. Your dentist will check the fit, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure everything feels comfortable.
After the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity, but this typically subsides after a few days. Most people are able to eat, drink, and speak normally very quickly, with the added benefit of a restored smile.
Elite Smile Family Dentistry in Northville, MI: Your Trusted Dental Care Provider
If you’re considering crowns and bridges, you deserve the best care possible. Elite Smile Family Dentistry in Northville, MI, is dedicated to providing high-quality, personalized dental solutions for all your needs. With cutting-edge technology and a team of skilled professionals, we ensure every patient feels comfortable and receives the best possible outcome. Whether you're restoring a damaged tooth or filling a gap in your smile, Elite Smile Family Dentistry is here to help.
Schedule your consultation today and find out how we can transform your smile!
Conclusion
In summary, dental crowns and bridges are essential tools in restorative dentistry, helping to repair damaged teeth and replace missing ones while preserving both function and appearance. Whether you need a crown to protect a weakened tooth or a bridge to fill a gap, these treatments offer long-lasting solutions.
If you're considering crowns or bridges, consult with the experts at Elite Smile Family Dentistry in Northville, MI, for personalized care and high-quality results that will leave your smile looking and feeling its best.
