What are dental crowns and dental bridges?
Crowns and bridges are dental restorations used to replace missing teeth by your dentist. They are tooth replacements that look natural and can be used to replace a single tooth or a group of teeth.
Crowns and bridges are frequently used in conjunction. A bridge is made up of a tooth replacement in the middle and two crowns on either side of the gap created by missing teeth. If the teeth on either side of the missing tooth are healthy enough to support a bridge, this is a viable option.
Crowns
A dental crown is a cap that is placed over the top of a tooth to restore its strength and appearance. It can be used to strengthen weak teeth, restore broken teeth, cover misshapen or discoloured teeth, and secure dental bridges. Stainless steel, a metal (such as gold), porcelain and metal, resin, or ceramic are all options for crowns.
Bridges
Bridges are dental appliances that incorporate crowns and artificial teeth. They help to stabilize surrounding teeth, ensuring they don't shift out of place and fill the gap of missing teeth.
Benefits
- Dental crowns and bridges help support facial tissue
- They make speaking and eating easier
- They prevent the shifting of surrounding teeth, improving the long-term health of your mouth
- They can renew your confidence when smiling with a more uniform appearance
Placing Crowns & Bridges
Your dentist will prepare healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth. This involves filing them to the shapes and sizes required to allow for the crowns to be placed.
Placing a dental bridge is not surgical, and patients are awake during the procedure. However, if you suffer from dental anxiety, your dentist may offer techniques to reduce your fear or suggest dental sedation as a way to help you relax. Speak to your dentist to see if this is a solution for you.
Your dentist will take measurements and imprints of the surrounding teeth to ensure that your bridge will fit properly in your mouth. Temporary crowns may be made in some cases and must be removed before the permanent crown is placed.
Your dentist will numb the area receiving the crowns and bridge by using local anesthesia. The bridge will then be cemented in place.
In the case of multiple missing teeth or teeth that aren't able to support the bridge, the bridge could be anchored to dental implants. Your dentist will discuss your options with you.
What to Expect
Recovery time is quite short, with most people adapting to their new replacement teeth immediately.
Crowns and bridges, like natural teeth, require daily brushing and flossing. They're tough and can withstand everyday use like biting and chewing. Crowns and bridges should last about ten years if properly cared for, making them an excellent long-term solution for missing teeth.