Crown & Bridge

Crown & Bridge

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its strength, shape, size, and appearance. A dental bridge, on the other hand, is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth (pontics) to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants.

Symptoms:

Symptoms that might indicate the need for crown and bridge restorations include:

  • Severe Tooth Decay: Extensive tooth decay that cannot be effectively restored with fillings or other dental treatments.
  • Broken or Fractured Teeth: Teeth that are fractured, cracked, or weakened due to trauma, injury, or wear.
  • Missing Teeth: Gaps or spaces between teeth caused by tooth loss, which may affect oral function, aesthetics, and self-confidence.
  • Tooth Sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, especially in teeth with exposed dentin or underlying tooth structure.
  • Difficulty Chewing: Difficulty chewing or biting down due to compromised tooth structure or missing teeth.
  • Aesthetic Concerns: Aesthetic imperfections such as discolored, misshapen, or unevenly sized teeth that affect the appearance of the smile.

Treatments:

Crown and bridge restorations involve several steps and treatments to restore the function, aesthetics, and health of the teeth. The treatment process typically includes:

  • Comprehensive Examination: The dentist conducts a thorough evaluation of the teeth, gums, and surrounding oral structures to assess the extent of damage, tooth loss, and treatment needs.
  • Tooth Preparation: For crown placement, the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the remaining tooth structure is shaped to accommodate the dental crown. For bridge placement, the adjacent teeth (abutments) are prepared by reshaping them to serve as support for the bridge.
  • Impressions: Impressions or digital scans of the prepared teeth are taken to create custom-made crowns and bridges that fit accurately and comfortably.
  • Temporary Restoration: Temporary crowns or bridges may be placed over the prepared teeth while the permanent restorations are being fabricated in a dental laboratory.
  • Permanent Restoration: Once the permanent crowns or bridges are ready, they are cemented or bonded onto the prepared teeth, restoring function, aesthetics, and stability to the smile.
  • Follow-Up Care: Patients receive instructions on proper oral hygiene, maintenance of the restorations, and scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor the health and integrity of the crown and bridge restorations.

Crown and bridge restorations offer several benefits, including improved oral function, aesthetics, and longevity of the teeth. They provide a durable and natural-looking solution for damaged or missing teeth, helping patients achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. If you’re experiencing symptoms that may indicate the need for crown and bridge restorations, it’s essential to consult with a dentist for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.