Dental crowns and bridges are custom-fitted tooth prosthetics that are used to restore damaged or replace missing teeth. Both crowns and bridges are permanently attached and must be secured by a qualified dentist. Having your teeth restored with crowns or bridges allows for the appearance and function of naturally aligned, healthy teeth.
A dental crown is a fitted cap that is cemented over the surfaces of natural tooth structures or dental implants in order to provide both the function and appearance of a natural tooth. Additionally, crowns protect the remaining tooth structure by covering it like a cap. Crowns are usually made from gold, porcelain, or composite resin which can be matched to the patient’s natural tooth color.
A dental bridge is an appliance used to fill in the gaps left by missing teeth. A bridge is anchored in place by the natural teeth or crowns nearest to the empty space. The bridge is composed of two or more crowns that are attached to artificial teeth, called pontics. These artificial teeth are used to fill in the spaces where the missing teeth were. Just like dental crowns, the fake teeth used for bridges can be made from gold, porcelain, or composite resin that can be matched to the patient’s natural tooth color.
Did You Know?
There are four different types of dental bridges that all have a slightly different structure. They include traditional bridges, Maryland bonded bridges, cantilever bridges, and implant-supported bridges. Traditional bridges are the most commonly used type of dental bridge.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Am I a candidate for a dental crown or bridge?
You may be a candidate for a dental crown if you have one or more teeth that are broken, decayed, worn down, or chipped. You may be a candidate for a dental bridge if you have one or more missing teeth surrounded by healthy teeth on either side. To determine if you are an ideal candidate for a crown or bridge and which is right for you, schedule a consultation with one of our dentists at Jowett & Lewis Family Dentistry today.
What can I expect when having a dental crown or bridge placed at Jowett & Lewis Family Dentistry?
When you have a crown or bridge placed at Jowett & Lewis Family Dentistry, you can expect our dentist to examine the area that is damaged and recommend the appropriate solution. If it is determined that you are most likely a candidate for a dental crown or bridge, you may be able to start the process the same day as your consultation.
In order to place a crown or bridge, the tooth will first need to be prepared. During this preparation, your dentist will remove excessive tooth structure to ensure that the crown can fit properly. When having a dental bridge placed, this will need to be repeated on both teeth receiving crowns.
An impression of your teeth will then be taken and sent to a dental lab where your custom-fitted crown or bridge will be created. After you are notified that they are ready, our dentists at Jowett & Lewis Family Dentistry will place your new crown or bridge and ensure that it fits properly.
What should I expect after getting a crown or bridge?
After having your crown or bridge placed, it is normal to experience some sensitivity – especially to hot and cold. Additionally, you may experience soreness in the gums surrounding your restorations, though this is usually manageable with ibuprofen and should subside within a few days. This sensitivity and gum soreness is usually short-lived and fades once the tooth and gums have adapted to the new restoration.
