What Are Dental Crowns?
Think of dental crowns as hats for your teeth. A crown is a cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. If you’ve ever had a cracked tooth or one ravaged by decay, a crown can be a life-saver, or should I say, tooth-saver!
Crowns can be made from various materials, including metal, porcelain, and ceramic. Each has its pros and cons. Metal crowns, for instance, are durable but not the prettiest. Porcelain and ceramic crowns, on the other hand, look more like natural teeth but may not be as hardy. A little tip – discuss your lifestyle and needs with your dentist to find the best material for you.
How Are Crowns Applied?
Getting a crown usually involves two visits. During the first appointment, your dentist will examine and prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to fit the crown snugly. They’ll then take an impression of your tooth to create a model, which will be sent to a dental lab where your crown will be made. In the meantime, you’ll get a temporary crown to protect your tooth.
When your permanent crown is ready, you’ll return for the second visit. Your dentist will remove the temporary crown and cement the permanent one in place. Voila! You’re all set with a revitalised tooth that not only looks great but functions well too.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Now, let’s bridge the gap—literally. A dental bridge is used to fill the space where one or more teeth are missing. It’s like putting in a row of houses where there were once empty lots. Bridges help maintain the shape of your face, improve your smile, and make it easier to chew and speak.
There are several types of dental bridges, the most common being the traditional bridge. This involves creating a crown for the teeth on either side of the gap (abutment teeth) with a false tooth (pontic) in between. The pontic is held in the middle, suspended by the crowns on either side like a beautiful architectural bridge.
How Are Bridges Applied?
Much like crowns, getting a bridge also involves a couple of visits. Initially, the abutment teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow room for the crowns. Impressions of your teeth are then made and sent to a lab for construction.
During the second visit, your dentist will fit the bridge by setting the crowns on the abutment teeth. It’s crucial that the bridge fits well, so some adjustments might be needed. Once everything is just right, the bridge is cemented in place, restoring your smile and the function of your teeth.
Do I Need a Crown or a Bridge?
Wondering if you need a crown or a bridge? Generally, if you have a damaged tooth, you’re a candidate for a crown. If you’re missing teeth and need to fill that gap, a bridge could be the way to go. It’s always best to chat with your dentist to determine the most suitable treatment for your specific needs.
Caring for Your Crowns and Bridges
Think of crowns and bridges as tiny investments in your dental health. Proper care can extend their lifespan and keep your mouth in top condition. Here are a few tips:
- Brush and floss regularly. Flossing is especially crucial around your crowns and bridges to keep the area free from plaque and debris.
- Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. They’ll ensure your crowns and bridges are in good condition.
- Avoid chewing on hard foods and objects to prevent damaging your crowns and bridges.
It’s also worth noting that while crowns and bridges are durable, they’re not indestructible. Sensible care and habits will help them last longer.
Common Misconceptions
Let’s debunk a couple of myths. Some people think crowns and bridges stand out like a sore thumb, but modern materials and techniques make them blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Another myth is that the procedure is painful. Sure, there may be some discomfort, but many patients report that it’s far less daunting than they imagined.
Wrapping It Up
There you have it, folks! Crowns and bridges, in a nutshell. They’re fantastic solutions for restoring integrity and function to your teeth. At The Avenue Dental, we’re dedicated to providing you with the best possible care, ensuring that every visit is a pleasant one.
If you have any questions or think you might benefit from a crown or bridge, don’t hesitate to reach out. Remember, a great smile is just a visit away!
