What are Dental Crowns & Bridges?
Crowns
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a tooth to protect and restore its shape and size. Crowns are typically made from porcelain or ceramic, however they can also be made from metal or composite resin.
Crowns are used to cover teeth that have been damaged by decay, trauma, or other factors. They can also be used to improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, stained, or discoloured.
The crown is cemented into place on the tooth, and it covers the visible portion of the tooth. The crown protects the tooth from further decay and damage, and it can also help to improve the tooth’s appearance.
Crowns are a permanent solution, and they can last for many years. However, they can sometimes become damaged or broken, and they may need to be replaced.
Here are the steps involved in getting a dental crown:
- The dentist will first examine the tooth to determine if it is suitable for a crown
- If the tooth is suitable, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing a small amount of the tooth’s enamel
- The dentist will then take an impression/scan of the tooth
- The dentist will send the impression/scan to a lab, where a crown will be made
- The dentist will then cement the crown into place on the tooth
Here are some of the benefits of getting a dental crown:
Crowns can protect teeth from further decay and damage
- Crowns can improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, stained, or discoloured
- Crowns are a permanent solution, and they can last for many years
Here are some of the risks of getting a dental crown:
- Crowns can sometimes become damaged or broken
- Crowns can cause sensitivity or pain
If you are considering getting a dental crown, it is important to talk to your dentist about the risks and benefits of the procedure.
Bridges
A dental bridge is a type of restoration that is used to replace a missing tooth. It is made up of two crowns, which are cemented into place on the teeth on either side of the gap. The bridge itself is then bonded to the crowns, creating a single, artificial tooth.
Bridges are a common treatment for missing teeth, as they are a relatively affordable and effective solution. They can also be used to improve the appearance of your smile, as they can make your teeth look straighter and more even.
There are two main types of bridges:
- Cantilever bridges: These bridges are used when there is only one tooth on either side of the gap. The bridge is supported by the crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap, and it does not require any additional support from other teeth
- Maryland bridges: These bridges are used when there are two or more teeth on either side of the gap. The bridge is supported by the crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap, and it also has a support bar that is cemented into place on the tooth that is missing
The procedure for getting a dental bridge is as follows:
- The dentist will first examine the teeth to determine if they are healthy enough to support a bridge
- If the teeth are healthy, the dentist will prepare them by removing a small amount of enamel from each tooth
- The dentist will then take an impression of the teeth
- The dentist will send the impression to a lab, where a bridge will be made
- The dentist will then cement the bridge into place on the teeth
Bridges typically last for 10-15 years, however they can last for many years with the correct care. It is important to brush and floss your teeth regularly, and to see your dentist for regular check-ups and your hygienist for preventative oral hygiene appointments, both tailored specifically to your needs.
Here are some of the benefits of getting a dental bridge:
- Bridges can replace a missing tooth, which can improve your appearance and your ability to eat and speak
- Bridges can be used to improve the appearance of your smile, as they can make your teeth look straighter and more even
- Bridges are a relatively affordable and effective solution for missing teeth
Here are some of the risks of getting a dental bridge:
- Bridges can sometimes become damaged or broken
- Bridges can cause sensitivity or pain
- Bridges can require additional procedures, such as gum surgery or root canals
Are you looking for a renowned Crown & Bridges Dentist in Hove? Look no more! The House of Dental takes pride in having leading and knowledgeable clinicians, with state-of-the-art equipment to care for your entire family’s dental needs.
So, what’s stopping you? Book an appointment with us today and begin your journey towards a beautiful and healthy smile.