Crowns and bridges are prosthetic devices which are permanently cemented to existing teeth and can only be removed by a dentist. Crowns and bridges are used to restore the appearance of your smile and maintain the functionality of your teeth, allowing you to chew properly and comfortably.
- A dental crown fits over a damaged tooth and restores it to its normal appearance and function. Crowns are used to restore teeth that are broken, chipped, misshapen, decayed, severely worn-down, and are used after a root canal is performed to protect the underlying tooth. Crowns are made to resemble the shape and size of the original tooth and effectively replace the top of a damaged tooth. Crowns reinforce and protect the tooth and root.
- Bridges are restorations used to fill in missing teeth. Dental bridges function the same way as a bridge as part of a road: it spans the gap between two areas. They are made to replace one or more missing teeth when the adjacent teeth are strong enough to support the missing tooth. The bridge spans the space where the teeth are missing. It consists of crowns on the remaining natural teeth, with a false tooth attached in between them.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists to find out how one of our dental restoration procedures can help you regain confidence in your smile. For help finding a local dental professional, search for a dentist near you.
What Do Crowns And Bridges Treat?
Crowns and bridges are very common dental restorations used to solve a wide variety of structural tooth and mouth problems. Not only do they restore functionality, they also protect vulnerable adjacent teeth from further damage. Each restoration can be used to solve several problems, such as:
- Missing teeth
- Cracked teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Discolored teeth
How Do I Know If I Need A Crown Or Bridge?
If one of your teeth is extensively decayed or broken, you may need a crown. And if you have recently lost a tooth, a dental bridge could be the right option for you. Make an appointment with your dentist if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Visibly damaged teeth
- Tooth pain
- Teeth that are sensitive to hot or cold
- Painful tooth brushing
- Painful chewing
- Swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Unexplained tooth pain
The best way to determine if you need a crown or bridge is by making an appointment with your dentist. They can then review your symptoms, make an accurate diagnosis and give you their recommended treatment plan.
How Do I Get A Crown Or Bridge?
If you think you might need a crown or bridge, you should make an appointment with your dentist. Crowns and bridges are commonly performed procedures that can help prevent more serious problems. Getting a crown or bridge usually requires multiple visits to your dentist’s office: During the first visit, your dentist will assess your tooth and if a restoration is required, prepare for the crown or bridge by taking X-rays, drilling to remove decay and place a temporary crown to protect the tooth. The dentist cements or implants the crown or bridge during the next visit, providing no additional work is necessary or indicated.