Dental crowns and bridges are important when you want to keep your smile healthy and confident. Dentists use these special treatments to make damaged or missing teeth look and work better. If you have a cracked tooth or a space in your smile, dental crowns and bridges can help for a long time. This ultimate guide will tell you about dental crowns and bridges – what kinds there are, why they’re good, when you might need them, how they’re put in, how to take care of them, how much they cost, and answers to questions people often ask.
What are dental crowns?
Dentists make custom tooth coverings called dental crowns or caps. They put them on damaged or decayed teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance. Dental crowns are made of ceramic, porcelain, metal, or a mix of these.
Types of dental crowns
There are different kinds of dental crowns, each with unique qualities.
Porcelain crowns: Dentists use porcelain crowns because they look a lot like natural teeth. They’re great for fixing front teeth and making them look good. But be careful because porcelain crowns might chip or crack more easily than other kinds.
Ceramic crowns: Crowns made of ceramic are strong, won’t stain, and look like natural teeth. They’re a good choice if you’re allergic to metal. People like them because they look great and last a long time.
Metal crowns: Dentists use metal crowns, like gold or silver ones, because they are super strong and don’t wear down easily. They work well for fixing back teeth that do a lot of chewing. The only thing is, they don’t look as nice as porcelain or ceramic crowns.”
Benefits of dental crowns
Dentists use dental crowns because they have many benefits. Crowns make weak or damaged teeth strong and stable, preventing more decay or breakage. They also improve the look of discolored or misshapen teeth, enhancing your smile and confidence. Dental crowns can last long if you take good care of them. They will keep your teeth looking good and working well for years.
When are dental crowns recommended?
Dental crowns are recommended in various situations:
- Severe tooth decay: If a tooth has a lot of decay and a dental filling won’t work, dentists may suggest a crown to make the tooth strong and functional again.
- Broken or cracked teeth: A dental crown can help hold a broken or cracked tooth together and keep it from getting worse.
- After a root canal: Sometimes, after a root canal, dentists put a dental crown on the treated tooth to make it strong.
- Cosmetic reasons: It is also possible to improve the appearance of teeth with dental crowns, especially if they are very discolored, misshapen, or have had cosmetic procedures like dental implants.
How are dental crowns placed?
You usually go to the dentist twice to put on a dental crown. On the first visit, the dentist gets the tooth ready by cleaning it and shaping it for the crown. They take a special picture of the tooth to make a custom crown that fits just right.
While they make the real crown, they might put a temporary one in place to keep your tooth safe. On the second visit, they took off the temporary crown and stuck the real crown onto the tooth with special glue. The dentist checks to ensure it fits well and feels good before they finish.
What are dental bridges?
Restorations, or dental bridges, can replace a single or multiple missing teeth. They are made up of pontics, which are false teeth that are fastened to the teeth or implants next to them.
When you get a dental bridge, it will do more than fix your smile; it will also make chewing and speaking much easier. A flawless and lifelike appearance is achieved because they are meticulously crafted to mimic your teeth’ color, shape, and size.
What are dental bridges?
Restorations, or dental bridges, can replace a single or multiple missing teeth. They are made up of pontics, which are false teeth that are fastened to the teeth or implants next to them.
When you get a dental bridge, it will do more than fix your smile; it will also make chewing and speaking much easier. A flawless and lifelike appearance is achieved because they are meticulously crafted to mimic your teeth’ color, shape, and size.
Types of dental bridges
There are different kinds of dental bridges; the best one for you depends on your needs and oral health condition.
- Traditional bridges: These are the most common. The dentist puts a fake tooth between two crowns on your natural teeth. It’s a strong and lasting way to fill a gap.
- Cantilever bridges: They use a cantilever bridge when there’s only one natural tooth next to the gap. It’s not as common and only works for some.
- Maryland bridges: This is a simpler option. A metal or porcelain frame sticks to the back of your natural teeth, and the fake tooth is in the middle. Traditional bridges are stronger than traditional bridges but are less invasive.
Benefits of dental bridges
Dental bridges offer several benefits for individuals with missing teeth:
- Restored functionality: Dental bridges allow you to chew and speak properly, restoring your ability to enjoy a wide range of foods and communicate without any hindrance.
- Looking better: If you have gaps from missing teeth, bridges fill them, making your smile complete and natural. They also stop other teeth from moving, keeping your whole smile in line.
- Feeling confident: When your smile is fixed, you feel good in social and professional places. Dental bridges make you feel better about yourself and make life better.
When are dental bridges recommended?
Dental bridges may be recommended in the following situations:
- Missing teeth: They’re a good way to replace one or more missing teeth, especially if your nearby teeth are strong and healthy.
- Unsuitable for dental implants: Bridges are an option if you can’t get dental implants because of bone loss or some other issue.
- Restoring functionality: Dental Bridges make it easier to chew and talk right, making your whole mouth healthier.
- Preventing tooth shifting: If you’re missing a tooth, the teeth next to it could move, which could make it hard to bite properly. With a bridge, your teeth stay in place, so none of these problems happen.
How are dental bridges placed?
To put in dental bridges, your dentist usually needs two visits:
- First Visit: Your dentist gets the nearby teeth ready by removing a bit of enamel. They take an impression of your teeth to make a custom bridge. While the real bridge is being made, they might put in a temporary one to protect your teeth.
- Second Visit: The temporary bridge comes out, and the real bridge is adjusted and glued to the nearby teeth using dental cement. Your dentist ensures it fits right and comforts you before finishing everything.
Taking care of dental crowns and bridges
Keep your dental crown and bridge in good shape with these tips:
- Brush and Floss: Clean your teeth well at least twice a day and floss every day, especially around the crown or bridge.
- Watch what you bite: Avoid hard or sticky foods that can harm or loosen your crown or bridge.
- Regular dentist visits: See your dentist often for check-ups and cleanings. They’ll check your crown or bridge and fix anything that needs attention.
- Mind your habits: Avoid things like grinding or clenching your teeth, biting your nails, or chewing on non-food items. These habits can strain your crown or bridge.
Costs of dental crowns and bridges
Dental crowns and bridges have different costs based on materials, case complexity, and location. Consult your dentist for a precise estimate tailored to your needs. Consider them an investment in your oral health and well-being.
FAQs about dental crowns and bridges
1. Are dental crowns and bridges permanent?
Although dental crowns and bridges are made to last a long time, you may need to get new ones over time if your oral health changes or if they get worn down.
2. Can dental crowns or bridges be whitened?
Dental crowns and bridges cannot be whitened with traditional teeth whitening methods. If you desire a whiter smile, discussing alternative options with your dentist is recommended.
3. Will dental crowns or bridges feel uncomfortable?
Initially, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort after the placement of dental crowns or bridges. However, this should subside within a few days. If you continue to experience discomfort, it is important to contact your dentist.
4. When did your dental crowns and bridges get replaced?
With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns and bridges can last for many years, ranging from 10 to 15 years or even longer.
Conclusion: Achieving a healthy and confident smile with dental crowns and bridges
Dentists use dental crowns and bridges to fix damaged or missing teeth, helping people regain oral health and confidence. Whether you need a crown for a decayed tooth or a bridge for missing teeth, these solutions are long-lasting. Learn about types, benefits, recommendations, placement, and maintenance to make informed decisions. Consult your dentist for personalized advice. Dental crowns and bridges can give you a healthy, confident smile.
If you are in need of dental crowns or bridges, schedule a consultation with Roots Dental, a trusted dental practice in Portland, Oregon. Our team of experts will give you individualized care and make treatment plans that are just right for you so that you can reach your dental goals. Contact us today to take the first step towards a healthy and confident smile.
