Crown

Crowns and Bridges are dental restorations designed to restore the function, appearance, and strength of damaged or missing teeth. These treatments provide long-lasting solutions for patients looking to improve their smile and maintain overall oral health.

Crowns

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth. Crowns are often recommended for teeth that are severely decayed, cracked, or worn down. They help restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance.

When are crowns needed?

  • To protect a tooth after a root canal treatment

  • To restore a broken or severely worn-down tooth

  • To cover a large filling when there isn’t enough tooth left

  • To enhance the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth

Crowns are made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination, depending on the location of the tooth and the patient’s needs. Porcelain crowns are often used for visible teeth due to their natural appearance.

Bridges

A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) anchored to the adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. The bridge literally “bridges” the gap left by missing teeth, restoring your smile, improving chewing ability, and preventing adjacent teeth from shifting.

When are bridges needed?

  • To replace one or more missing teeth

  • To restore the ability to chew and speak comfortably

  • To maintain the structure of your bite and prevent remaining teeth from shifting

Bridges are custom-made to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, and the materials used often match the appearance of your original teeth.

Procedure

  1. Initial Consultation and Examination: Your dentist will assess your oral health and take X-rays to determine the best treatment option for your situation.

  2. Preparation: For crowns, the tooth will be reshaped to allow the crown to fit snugly. For bridges, the adjacent teeth will be prepared to hold the bridge.

  3. Impressions: Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth to create a custom crown or bridge that fits your mouth perfectly.

  4. Temporary Restoration: A temporary crown or bridge may be placed while the permanent restoration is being made.

  5. Final Placement: Once the permanent crown or bridge is ready, it will be fitted and cemented into place.

Benefits

  • Restores Function: Crowns and bridges restore the ability to chew and speak normally.

  • Improved Aesthetics: Both treatments enhance the appearance of damaged or missing teeth, giving you a more confident smile.

  • Durability: Crowns and bridges are made from strong, durable materials that can last for many years with proper care.

  • Prevents Tooth Shifting: Bridges prevent adjacent teeth from shifting out of position, which can affect your bite.

Crowns and bridges are effective, reliable solutions for restoring damaged or missing teeth. They offer significant improvements in both function and appearance, ensuring a healthy and beautiful smile.