Crowns and Bridges

A crown is similar to a cap that is placed over a tooth. If a tooth is so badly damaged that it cannot be restored with a filling, then a crown is recommended. The tooth is trimmed down, polished, and then a cap is installed over the top of the tooth to help protect and strengthen it. Crowns typically resemble a natural tooth, and many individuals find it difficult to determine which tooth has been capped and which one is natural.

A bridge is a dental piece that is used to connect two teeth together around a missing tooth. Three teeth are involved in bridges. A perfect explanation for a bridge in dentistry is similar to a bridge in reality - you have one support on one side, one support on the other side, and you're connecting the two by making a bridge so you can cross over the river. Bridges can be extended to accommodate more than one missing tooth in the mouth. Bridges and crowns are typically used to replace damaged or missing teeth, and are long-term solutions to these issues. With the current technology, you can now receive metal-free crowns, which are stronger and long-lasting alternatives to the previously utilized metal, plastic fillings and caps. These porcelain crowns help strengthen the tooth and are much more effective at protecting your tooth than traditional metal crowns, which could crack or come loose from the effected tooth.

Bridges and crowns will typically last approximately 20 years with proper care and dental hygiene. Regular check-ups are required in order to maintain the crowns and bridges, which require cleaning and continuing care visits to keep your investment in the best shape and to help protect your teeth over time. Bridges require little extra care and maintenance because you are dealing with a missing tooth, but regular brushing and proper flossing techniques can help keep particles and bacteria from causing problems within the area.