Dental Crowns and Bridges
Dental crowns and bridges are fixed prosthetic devices used to restore damaged or missing teeth. A crown, also known as a cap, covers and protects a weakened or damaged tooth, while a bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring to the adjacent natural teeth or implants. These restorations help improve chewing function, enhance aesthetics, and maintain the natural alignment of your teeth.
Benefits of Crowns and Bridges
- Restore function and appearance of damaged or missing teeth
- Improve chewing and speaking abilities
- Prevent shifting of surrounding teeth
- Strengthen and protect weakened teeth
- Enhance smile aesthetics and boost confidence
Types of Dental Crowns
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): Strong and natural-looking, commonly used for both front and back teeth
- All-ceramic or all-porcelain: Best aesthetics, ideal for front teeth
- Metal crowns: Extremely durable, usually used on molars
- Zirconia crowns: Very strong and aesthetically pleasing, increasingly popular
- Resin crowns: Affordable, but less durable than other types
Types of Dental Bridges
- Traditional bridges: Most common type, uses crowns on adjacent teeth
- Cantilever bridges: Anchored on only one adjacent tooth
- Maryland bridges: Bonded to adjacent teeth using a metal or porcelain framework
- Implant-supported bridges: Supported by dental implants instead of natural teeth
Procedure for Crowns and Bridges
- Dental examination and X-rays to assess the affected teeth
- Tooth preparation, including reshaping to fit the crown or bridge
- Taking impressions to create custom-fitted restorations
- Placement of a temporary crown or bridge while the permanent one is made
- Final crown or bridge is cemented in place during a follow-up visit
With proper care and regular dental checkups, crowns and bridges can last many years. Maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding hard foods, and addressing dental issues early can ensure the longevity of your restorations and your overall oral health.
