Dental crowns and bridges are restorative dental treatments designed to repair damaged teeth and replace missing ones, respectively. These treatments not only restore the functionality of teeth but also enhance the aesthetics of your smile. Understanding the purpose, procedure, and benefits of dental crowns and bridges can help you make informed decisions about your dental health.

What are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a cap-like restoration that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth. Crowns are used to restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. They are typically made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these.

When are Dental Crowns Needed?

• Severely Decayed Teeth: Crowns are used to cover and protect teeth with large fillings or extensive decay.
• Fractured or Broken Teeth: They can restore teeth that are cracked or broken.
• Root Canal Treatment: After a root canal, a crown is often placed to protect the tooth and restore its function.
• Cosmetic Enhancement: Crowns can improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth.
• Dental Implants: Crowns are used to complete the restoration of a dental implant.

Procedure for Getting a Dental Crown

1. Preparation: The dentist will numb the area and prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to fit the crown.
2. Impression: An impression of the prepared tooth is taken to create a custom crown. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth in the meantime.
3. Fabrication: The impression is sent to a dental lab where the crown is custom-made to match your natural teeth.
4. Placement: Once the crown is ready, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is cemented in place. The dentist will ensure the crown fits properly and adjusts it as needed.

What are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) that are anchored in place by dental crowns on the adjacent teeth (abutments).

Types of Dental Bridges

• Traditional Bridges: These are the most common type, consisting of one or more pontics held in place by crowns on the adjacent teeth.
• Cantilever Bridges: Used when there is only one adjacent tooth available to support the bridge.
• Maryland Bridges: These use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth, requiring less alteration to the natural teeth.
• Implant-Supported Bridges: These are anchored by dental implants rather than crowns on natural teeth.

Procedure for Getting a Dental Bridge

1. Preparation: The abutment teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to accommodate the crowns.
2. Impression: An impression of the prepared teeth and the gap is taken to create a custom bridge.
3. Temporary Bridge: A temporary bridge is placed to protect the exposed teeth and gums while the permanent bridge is being made.
4. Fabrication: The impression is sent to a dental lab where the bridge is custom-made to match your natural teeth.
5. Placement: The temporary bridge is removed, and the permanent bridge is fitted, adjusted, and cemented in place.

Benefits of Dental Crowns and Bridges

1. Restored Functionality: Both crowns and bridges restore the ability to chew and speak properly.
2. Aesthetic Improvement: They enhance the appearance of your smile by filling gaps and covering damaged teeth.
3. Preventing Teeth Shifting: Bridges prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position, which can cause bite problems and further dental issues.
4. Durability: With proper care, crowns and bridges can last many years, providing long-term solutions to dental problems.

Aftercare for Crowns and Bridges

• Oral Hygiene: Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing regularly. Pay special attention to the area around the crown or bridge to prevent decay and gum disease.
• Regular Dental Visits: Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings to ensure the health of your crowns and bridges.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or hard candy, which can damage your crowns or bridges.
• Address Issues Promptly: If you notice any discomfort, looseness, or damage to your crowns or bridges, contact your dentist promptly for evaluation and repair.