Both crowns and bridges are prosthetic devices that can be used to restore a damaged or missing tooth. They are both made of material that can be customized to match the color, texture and shape of your existing teeth.
There are many reasons that a person might need a dental crown or bridge, but one common reason is to repair a crack or missing tooth. A dental crown is a ceramic shell that covers an entire tooth, giving it a new appearance and function while also preserving the integrity of the tooth’s structure.
A crown can be used to protect a weak tooth, restore a broken or chipped tooth, hold a dental bridge in place, cover an implant or cover a tooth that has had a root canal.
Before a crown is placed, your dentist will first reshape the surrounding teeth and gums to create space for the restoration. This is called “preparation.” Then, impressions or a scan of your teeth are taken. These are a model that a dental laboratory can use to make your bridge, false teeth and crowns.
Your provider will then fit you with a temporary bridge to protect the exposed teeth and gums while the bridge, pontic and crowns are being made. Your dentist may also place a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
When your dental crown or bridge is ready for placement, you will come back to the office. At this second visit, the temporary bridge is removed and your provider will fit you with the permanent bridge.
While your crown or bridge will be permanently bonded to the supporting teeth, it still needs regular maintenance to maintain its function and durability. You will need to brush and floss the bridge and the surrounding teeth to keep it clean. You should avoid chewing on hard foods, ice or other hard objects that can cause the bridge to break or loosen.
You can expect your dental crown or bridge to last between 15 and 30 years if you maintain good oral hygiene habits and follow the advice of your dentist. The life of your restoration depends on your oral health and hygiene, diet, and the quality of your supporting teeth and gums.
There are many different types of crowns and bridges, so it is important to have your treatment evaluated by a dentist. The best dentists in Sarasota Florida will be able to recommend the type of restoration that is right for you.
A dental bridge is a popular method for replacing teeth. It consists of two or more crowns that are fused together to an artificial tooth called a pontic. The crowns and pontic are usually made from porcelain or composite resin, so they blend in with your natural teeth.
A bridge is typically more expensive than a dental crown, but it can be a better choice for people who have several missing teeth or those with a lot of decay or damage on the surrounding tooth structure. A bridge is also more stable than a crown, which can become loose over time.