Crowns & Bridges

Bridges

Bridges are dental appliances that can replace a section of missing tooth with a natural look. Bridges are barely noticeable and can restore the natural contour of teeth as well as proper bite.

Bridges, are also called fixed partial dentures, because they are semi-permanent and are bonded to existing teeth or implants. There are several types of fixed dental bridges  including fixed bridges, cantilever bridges and resin-bonded bridges. Unlike a removable bridge, which you can take out and clean, only your dentist can remove a fixed bridge. .

Porcelain, gold alloys or combinations of materials are usually used to make bridge appliances

Crowns

Crowns are synthetic caps made of a material like porcelain. They’re  placed on the top of a tooth.

Crowns can be used to restore a tooth’s function and appearance following a procedure such as a root canal. When decay in a tooth has become so advanced that large portions of the tooth must be removed, crowns may be used to restore the tooth.

Crowns are also used to attach bridges, cover implants, prevent cracked teeth from becoming worse, or an existing filling is in jeopardy of becoming dislocated. They also serve an aesthetic use, and are applied when a discolored or stained tooth needs to be restored to a more natural appearance.

Procedures

A tooth must usually be reduced to accommodate a crown. An impression is made from the existing tooth to create a custom crown. The impression is sent to a lab which then manufactures the custom-designed crown. Sometimes a temporary crown is applied until the permanent crown is ready, then permanent crowns are cemented in place.

Crowns are often confused with veneers, but they are very different. Veneers are typically applied only to small areas.

Crown Care

With diligent care, a quality crown can last up to eight years or longer. It is important to floss in the area of the crown to avoid excess plaque or collection of debris.

Certain behavior such as jaw clenching and teeth grinding will shorten the life of a crown. Also eating brittle foods, ice or hard candy can damage the crown itself or compromise it’s adhesion.

Dental Group of Alek Zand DDS – Dr. Zand on Google