Dental crowns and bridges are common dental procedures that help restore the functionality and aesthetics of your teeth. The former is a tooth-shaped cap on a damaged or decayed area to protect and restore its shape, size, and strength.
Conversely, the latter replaces one or several missing teeth by anchoring them onto the adjacent area. This article will provide a simple overview of how they work.
Dental Crowns
These are typically used to restore a tooth that is severely damaged or decayed. The crown is designed to cover the entire tooth, including the visible portion and the root. The crown is usually made of porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys and is custom-made to match your natural teeth’ shape, size, and colour.
The dental crown procedure usually involves two appointments with your dentist. During the first visit, your dentist will remove any decay or damage and shape it to fit the crown. Then, they will take an impression of the tooth before sending it to a lab where the crown will be custom-made. Then, the dentist will place a temporary crown over the tooth to keep it safe until the permanent crown is ready.
During the second visit, your dentist will replace the temporary crown with the permanent one. Your dentist will check the fit and colour of the crown and make any adjustments as needed. Once the crown is securely in place, you can resume normal activities and enjoy the benefits of a restored tooth.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are also used to replace one or more missing teeth. This is where two or more dental crowns are placed over the adjacent teeth to anchor the prosthetic tooth. The bridge is usually made of porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys and is custom-made to match your natural teeth’ shape, size, and colour.
The dental bridge procedure usually involves two or more appointments with your dentist. Much like getting crowns, your dentist will prepare the adjacent teeth by removing any decay or damage and shaping them to fit the crowns. They will take an impression of the pearly whites and send it to a dental lab where the bridge will be customized. Your dentist will temporarily cover the missing tooth to protect the adjacent teeth until the permanent bridge is ready.
On the second visit, your dentist will take out the temporary bridge and replace it with the permanent one. Your dentist will check the fit and colour of the bridge and make any adjustments as needed. Once the bridge is securely in place, you can resume normal activities and enjoy the benefits of a restored smile.
Maintenance and Care
Dental crowns and bridges require regular maintenance and care to ensure longevity and effectiveness. To remove plaque or debris, brush and floss your teeth regularly, especially around the crown or bridge. You should also avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods that can damage the crown or bridge. Additionally, it would be best to visit your dentist consistently for cleanings and checkups to ensure that the crown or bridge is functioning properly and that there are no signs of decay or damage.
In Conclusion
These are effective solutions for restoring the functionality and aesthetics of your teeth. They are custom-made to match the shape, size, and colour of your natural teeth and are made to last for years with proper maintenance and care. If you are experiencing dental problems, such as damaged or missing teeth, talk to your dentist about whether dental crowns or bridges might be right for you.
Book an Appointment at Ivory Dental Today
Our main objective at Ivory Dental Clinic is to ensure you have a comfortable and satisfying dental visit. We provide various amenities, such as wall-mounted televisions and the convenience of electronic claims filing, to ensure you receive the best possible care. Call us at (416) 461-6516 for dental crowns in Pickering!
Related Reading
- Cosmetic Dentistry in Pickering and Popular Smile Improvements
- Repairing Worn Down and Ageing Teeth with Cosmetic Options
- Fixing Chipped and Cracked Teeth with Cosmetic Procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental crowns last?
Dental crowns typically last 10 to 15 years with proper care. Some porcelain and gold crowns can last 25 years or longer. Regular dental checkups at Ivory Dental help monitor crown condition.
Does getting a dental crown hurt?
Getting a dental crown at Ivory Dental involves local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some patients experience mild sensitivity for a few days afterward.
Can a dental crown fall off?
While uncommon, dental crowns can become loose or fall off due to decay under the crown or weakened cement. If this happens, contact Ivory Dental immediately at (905) 839-9663 for re-cementation.
For more information, visit the Canadian Dental Association on crowns and bridges.
