Crowns & Bridges
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are prosthetic restorations that cover the entire structure of a damaged or weakened tooth. They are designed to restore the tooth’s strength, shape, and appearance. Crowns are often recommended for teeth that have undergone significant damage, decay, or wear.
Materials Used for Crowns
Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including:
- Ceramic: Offers a natural appearance and is ideal for front teeth.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): Combines the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain.
- Metal: Highly durable and suitable for back teeth, where strength is crucial.
- Resin: More affordable and used for temporary crowns or in cases where aesthetics are less of a concern.
Your dentist will discuss the best material for your crown based on your specific needs and preferences.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Our dental crowns are built to last, with a structural warranty of up to 15 years. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, crowns can provide long-term durability and functionality. The lifespan of a crown can be influenced by factors such as the location of the tooth, the material used, and your overall dental care routine.
The Crown Procedure
- Consultation and Planning: Your dentist will evaluate your tooth and discuss the best material for your crown.
- Tooth Preparation: The affected tooth is reshaped to accommodate the crown.
- Impressions: Impressions or digital scans are taken to create a custom-fitted crown.
- Temporary Crown: A temporary crown is placed while your permanent crown is being made.
- Fitting and Placement: Once your custom crown is ready, it is fitted and cemented into place.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They are anchored by crowns placed on the adjacent healthy teeth or implants. The bridge spans the gap where the missing teeth were, restoring both function and appearance.
Types of Bridges
- Traditional Bridges: Consist of a crown on the teeth adjacent to the gap, with one or more artificial teeth in between.
- Cantilever Bridges: Used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the gap.
- Maryland Bridges: Feature a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth, requiring less alteration to the surrounding teeth.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: Supported by dental implants rather than natural teeth, providing a more stable and durable solution.
The Bridge Procedure
- Consultation and Planning: Your dentist will assess your oral health and determine the best type of bridge for you.
- Tooth Preparation: The adjacent teeth or implants are prepared to support the bridge.
- Impressions: Detailed impressions are taken to create a custom bridge.
- Temporary Bridge: A temporary bridge is placed while your permanent one is being crafted.
- Fitting and Adjustment: The permanent bridge is fitted, adjusted for comfort, and secured in place.
Aesthetic Considerations
Modern technology allows us to create crowns and bridges that closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth. We use advanced color-matching techniques to ensure that your restoration blends seamlessly with your existing teeth, achieving a natural and aesthetically pleasing result.
Maintenance and Care
To ensure the longevity of your crowns and bridges:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly, paying special attention to the areas around the crowns and bridges.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Schedule regular visits to your dentist for professional cleanings and check-ups.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Refrain from chewing hard foods or objects that could damage your crowns or bridges.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us today. Our team is here to help you restore your smile with durable and natural-looking crowns and bridges.