Crowns and Bridges
When you have had a root canal, have damage to a tooth, or had to have a tooth removed, you may need crowns or bridges to help repair the damage and make your teeth functional again.
Crowns are used to strengthen damaged teeth that have had dental work done to them, such as in the case of a root canal. They can also be used to help mount a bridge, which can be used to replace missing teeth.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are caps that can be placed over decayed, weakened, or damaged teeth in the
mouth. They can also be used to attach a bridge in some cases.
Dental crowns encase all visible parts of the tooth. They can:
- Improve the appearance of a tooth that is misshapen or discolored
- Replace missing teeth by being used as a part of a bridge or dental implant
- Restore damaged teeth, protecting underlying parts of a tooth that has had dental work performed on it
- Cover teeth following a root canal.
There are several kinds of dental crowns, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, zirconia, resin, and porcelain-fused-to-metal. Each one has its own pros and cons, which we will go over with you in the office before your treatment.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are a kind of dental restoration that can be used to replace one or more missing teeth by creating a “bridge” across the gap. Usually, there will be one or more artificial teeth, and there will be at least one crown to help support the bridge. When a crown is not possible on the surrounding teeth, a metal or porcelain framework can be used instead, preserving your natural teeth and helping place the bridge at the same time.
One other option is an implant-supported bridge. An implant-supported bridge rests on a zirconia or titanium implant or two and can be used for more significant gaps of missing teeth.
When To Consider a Crown or Bridge
A crown is often used to complete dental work on teeth or to help correct the appearance of a tooth. It may also be a part of a dental bridge. If you want to change the appearance of a tooth, protect a root canal, or connect a bridge without a physical implant, a crown could be the right option for you.
If you are missing one or more teeth and are not a candidate for a standard dental implant, getting a bridge may be a good option. Depending on the bridge that is best for your circumstances, you may be able to replace one, two, or even an entire quadrant of the teeth in your mouth.
Our dentist will speak with you about the options if a crown or bridge could be right for you based on your unique oral health care needs.
How Do You Take Care of Crowns and Bridges Between Appointments?
After you get a dental bridge or a crow, you will need to take special care to preserve its longevity. While these dental prosthetics and treatments can last for many years, they will survive even longer with appropriate care and attention.
Here are a few things you need to keep in mind about taking care of your dental crown or bridge:
Caring for Your Dental Crown:
Caring for a crown is similar to caring for any other tooth. You should brush and floss, avoid biting down on tough or hard objects, and get checkups every six months to ensure cracks or damage are spotted early.
Caring for Dental Bridges:
The way you take care of bridges is slightly different. To start with, you will need to floss between the gums and the replacement bridge. There is special floss with a stiff end that you will thread through that gap.
You should also brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly. Like with a crown, you will want to avoid biting down on very hard objects that could damage the bridge.
Finally, see your dentist at regular intervals. Every six months is recommended, but you may need to come in more often at first to have the bridge readjusted.
Contact Center for Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry for Crowns and Bridges in Hamilton Township, NJ
Dental crowns and bridges can help you maintain the functionality of your teeth, replace missing teeth to regain function and improve the appearance of your smile. There are multiple types available, so if you want to explore those options, we are more than happy to have you in for a consultation.
At Center for Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry, we’re ready to help you with any crowns or bridges you need to improve the functionality of your teeth and give you back your smile. Call us today to make your appointment at 1-609-585-4545.
