Dental Crown and Bridge

A dental crown and bridge are dental prosthetic devices that are used to restore and enhance the appearance of damaged or missing teeth. A dental crown is a cap-like structure that is placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. It can be made from a variety of materials such as porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. On the other hand, a dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of a false tooth or teeth that are anchored to the neighboring healthy teeth with the help of dental crowns. This not only fills the gap created by the missing teeth but also prevents the remaining teeth from shifting out of position. Overall, dental crowns and bridges are effective solutions for restoring the function and aesthetics of the teeth, providing patients with a confident and beautiful smile.

WHAT IS DENTAL CROWN AND BRIDGE TREATMENT?

The dental crown and bridge treatment is a long-term method of replacing missing teeth.
A tooth crown is placed on an individual tooth, (somewhat like a thimble over your finger) where there is no longer sufficient tooth structure left to place a filling.

A tooth bridge spans a space where one or more teeth have been lost in the dental arch. The teeth on either end of the span are crowned, and are referred to as abutments. The false teeth in a bridge that join the abutments are referred to as pontics. The dental crowns and dental bridges are most often made from superior materials such as precious metals (gold), semi-precious metals, porcelain or a combination of metal fused to porcelain.

Both aesthetics (appearance) and functions are considered when selecting the material most suitable for you. The dental crown costs offered by restorative dentistry are affordable.

HOW IS TREATMENT PERFORMED?

At the first dental Appointment, a thorough oral examination, evaluation of your dental history and necessary X-rays are completed. The diagnosis is based on these three factors. Once it has been determined that dental crown and bridge treatment is indicated, you will be set up with a series of appointments.

Note: It’s important that you keep all of these appointments.

You see, your dental crown procedure occurs in a planned sequence. Missing or postponing your appointment may cause treatment delays, allowing further tooth movement before treatment can be completed.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN?

The tooth or teeth to be treated are numbed with an anesthetic. Sometimes you can expect the side of your face to feel numb, as well. Next, during the preparation phase, your tooth or teeth to be crowned are trimmed down. This allows sufficient space for the crown or bridge to fit. After this preparation stage has been completed, an impression of that area of your mouth is taken. Your teeth will be fitted with temporary coverage until your next appointment.

At the following appointment, the crown or bridge is adjusted for proper fit, prior to permanent placement. It is often necessary to fine trim and polish the new crown or bridge.

Other factors we consider include:

• Aesthetics – color match and appearance

• Function – chewing and biting accuracy

• Tissue compatibility- the contour of the prosthesis must allow the surrounding tissue to conform to a natural, healthy position.

Replacing Missing Teeth:

• Helps restore and maintain the natural bite.

• Prevents unnatural stress on other teeth.

• Helps keep opposing teeth in their proper place.

• Prevents shifting and tilting of adjacent teeth.

• Helps prevent further dental decay and periodontal (gum) disease.

• Maximizes your smile, speech and chewing function.