Dental crowns and bridges are two of the most common and effective restorative dental treatments used to repair and replace damaged or missing teeth. While they serve different functions, both crowns and bridges play an essential role in restoring the function, strength, and appearance of your smile. In this blog, we’ll explore what crowns and bridges are, how they work, and why they might be recommended by your dentist.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns, also known as “caps,” are tooth-shaped covers that are placed over a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. They are custom-made to match the color and contour of your natural teeth and are cemented in place to fully encase the visible portion of the affected tooth above the gum line.
Crowns are typically recommended for several reasons:
- To protect a tooth that has been weakened by decay or a large filling
- To restore a broken or severely worn-down tooth
- To cover and support a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t enough natural tooth left
- To hold a dental bridge in place
- To cover a dental implant
- To improve the appearance of a misshapen or severely discolored tooth
Crowns can be made from a variety of materials including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of materials. Porcelain or ceramic crowns are often chosen for their natural appearance, especially for front teeth.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They are made up of two or more crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap—called abutment teeth—and a false tooth or teeth in between, called pontics. Like crowns, bridges are custom-made and can be crafted from porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials.
Bridges restore the appearance and function of your teeth by:
- Filling in gaps left by missing teeth
- Preventing remaining teeth from shifting out of position
- Maintaining the shape of your face
- Improving chewing and speaking ability
A dental bridge is permanently cemented in place and is a more stable and natural-looking solution than removable dentures. Bridges are often supported by natural teeth or dental implants.
The Procedure for Crowns and Bridges
The process for getting crowns or bridges typically involves two or more dental visits. During the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the tooth (or teeth) by removing any decay and shaping it to properly fit the crown or bridge. Impressions of your teeth are taken and sent to a dental lab where your custom restoration is created. While you wait for your permanent crown or bridge, a temporary one may be placed to protect the area.
At your second appointment, the dentist will check the fit and appearance of the crown or bridge before cementing it into place. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, crowns and bridges can last many years.
Caring for Your Crowns and Bridges
Just like natural teeth, crowns and bridges require good oral hygiene to ensure longevity and prevent complications. Here are a few care tips:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque
- Avoid chewing hard foods or objects that may damage the crown or bridge
- Use a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen teeth and prevent decay near the restoration
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings
It’s also important to address any issues such as loosening or discomfort early, so they can be corrected before more serious problems develop.
Dental Crowns and Bridges: Conclusion
Dental crowns and bridges are essential tools in modern dentistry for restoring damaged or missing teeth. They help bring back the function, aesthetics, and structure of your smile, making everyday tasks like eating and speaking more comfortable and natural. If you have a broken tooth or are missing one or more teeth, a dental crown or bridge may be the ideal solution.
At Ideal Smiles Dental, Dr. Lawrence Shtarkman and Dr. Daniel Kluchman are highly experienced in restorative dental treatments and will help you determine the best option to restore your smile. Whether you need a single crown or a full dental bridge, our team is here to deliver results you can count on.
Contact Information
Ideal Smiles Dental
2955 Veterans Rd. W, Suite 2G
Staten Island, NY 10309
Phone: 718-535-1196
Email: idealsmilesdental@gmail.com
Website: https://www.idealsmilesdental.com