02 Jan The Process and Benefits of Crowns and Bridges Explained
Restorative dentistry provides solutions for damaged or missing teeth using crowns and bridges. These dental prosthetics restore function and improve the overall alignment of a bite, and dentists often recommend these treatments to prevent complications like bone loss or shifting teeth. A consultation with a dentist helps determine whether a crown or bridge is an appropriate solution to any given dental concern. Here is more information about crowns and bridges and what they do:
What Crowns and Bridges Are
Crowns and bridges both replace lost teeth, but they differ in their functions and placement processes. A dental crown is a permanent cap that fits over a compromised tooth to restore its structural integrity. These restorations provide protection for teeth that have fractures or significant enamel wear. Providers often use porcelain, ceramic, or composite resin to match the appearance of natural teeth. Crowns are permanently cemented to the surface of the tooth after preparation.
The process for getting a crown typically requires two separate visits. During the first appointment, the dentist prepares the tooth and takes an impression to create a custom prosthetic. A temporary crown protects the tooth while a laboratory fabricates the permanent version. The second visit involves checking the fit and cementing the final restoration into place.
A dental bridge is a permanent prosthetic used to fill the space left by one or more missing teeth. This prosthetic relies on healthy adjacent teeth or dental implants for support. The anchors hold the artificial replacement in place to create a seamless row of teeth. Bridges remain fixed in the mouth and offer a durable alternative to removable partial dentures. Because they are not removable, some adjustments to established hygiene routines may be necessary in order to clean the space that may exist underneath the bridge.
What Crowns and Bridges Do
Unlike cosmetic dentistry procedures, restoring teeth with bridges and crowns improves or restores chewing function and helps prevent the remaining teeth from drifting out of their correct positions. Improved alignment from a restoration reduces the risk of dental pain and the risk of future dental issues. Dental restorations address several clinical needs to preserve oral function:
- Protecting weak teeth from breaking or further decay
- Restoring teeth that are already broken or worn down
- Providing support for large fillings when little natural tooth material remains
Materials used for these restorations often include porcelain-fused-to-metal or all-ceramic options. These materials are chosen for their ability to withstand the pressure of grinding and chewing. With proper care, dental crowns can last between five and 15 years before needing repair. Choosing the right material depends on the location of the tooth and the aesthetic goals of the patient.
What Maintains Crowns and Bridges
Consistent oral hygiene is necessary to prolong the lifespan of your dental restorations. Brushing twice daily and flossing around the margins of the prosthetic prevents plaque from accumulating because bacteria can still develop at the base of a crown and lead to decay in the natural tooth underneath. Using an interdental cleaner helps reach the space beneath a bridge.
Dietary choices also impact the durability of your dental work. Avoiding extremely hard or sticky foods prevents the prosthetic from becoming loose or chipping the ceramic surface. Patients who experience nighttime teeth grinding may benefit from wearing a custom night guard. To monitor the condition of your restorations, a dentist will want to see you at least twice a year for regular cleanings and checkups.
Learn More About Restorative Dentistry
Bridges and crowns are one way to restore dental function and oral health, offering long-term benefits for individuals with structural damage or missing teeth. These restorations can be completed in two office visits, in some cases. A dentist can evaluate your needs to create a personalized restoration plan. To learn more about bridges and crowns, consult a dentist near you.
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