Curious about dental crowns and bridges? Dental crowns and dental bridges are types of dental restorations used to replace or repair damaged or missing teeth. Both are designed to restore the function and appearance of your smile. Maintaining good oral health is essential to our overall well-being, and these dental restorations not only enhance the appearance of teeth but also prevent further damage and restore oral function.
At Advanced Dental Practice in Kingsgrove, we believe these two dental restorations can do wonders for your smile and oral health. In this article, we’ll dive into the differences between crowns and bridges, the various types available, the full procedure, and aftercare tips.
What is the difference between dental crowns and bridges?
A dental crown is like a cap that covers the entire visible part of a damaged or decayed tooth above the gum line. It’s designed to bring back the shape, size, strength, and look of a single tooth.
Crowns are often recommended for teeth that have gone through significant decay, trauma, or root canal treatment.
They can also be used to improve the appearance of misshapen or discoloured teeth. Custom-made to match the colour, size, and shape of your existing teeth, crowns provide a natural-looking result.
On the other hand, a dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It includes one or more artificial teeth, which are supported by dental crowns on the adjacent teeth, known as abutment teeth.
These crowns act as anchors, holding the artificial teeth in place. Dental bridges are fixed, meaning they are permanently cemented in the mouth and can’t be removed by the patient. They help restore the function and appearance of missing teeth, improving your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently.
Both dental crowns and bridges are tailored to match the colour and look of your natural teeth, providing great functional and cosmetic benefits.
Do you need to have dental crowns and dental bridges together?
No, you don’t need to have dental crowns and dental bridges together as they serve different purposes.
Dental crowns are used to restore individual teeth that are damaged, decayed, or have undergone root canal treatment. They cover the entire visible part of the tooth above the gum line, providing protection, strength, and a better appearance.
Whereas, dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of artificial teeth called pontics, which are supported by dental crowns placed on the adjacent natural teeth. These crowns serve as anchors, holding the artificial teeth in place and filling the gap created by themissing teeth.
While it’s possible to have both crowns and bridges if adjacent teeth require crowns and a bridge is needed to replace a missing tooth, it’s not necessary to combine them. Each restoration addresses specific dental issues independently.
Deciding between a crown and a bridge depends on your specific dental needs and how many teeth need to be addressed. A dentist in Kingsgrove can evaluate your situation and recommend the best option for you. It’s best to schedule a consultation to determine the right solution for your needs.
What are the types of Dental Crowns?
There are several types of dental crowns available, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Here are some common types of dental crowns:
All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain crowns
These crowns are made entirely of ceramic or porcelain materials, providing excellent aesthetic results. They are a popular choice for restoring front teeth because they blend seamlessly with natural tooth colour. All ceramic crowns are known for their superior aesthetics, biocompatibility, and high strength.
Metal crowns
These crowns are typically made of gold alloy, nickel-chromium alloy, or other non-precious metals. Metal crowns are known for their exceptional strength and durability. However, they are less commonly used in visible areas of the mouth due to their metallic appearance.
Zirconia crowns
Zirconia is a strong and biocompatible material that closely resembles natural tooth colour. Zirconia crowns offer excellent durability and aesthetics, making them suitable for both front and back teeth restorations. They are known for their high strength and resistance to chipping or fracturing and can withstand heavy biting forces.
Temporary crowns
These crowns are used as a temporary solution while waiting for a permanent crown to be fabricated. Temporary crowns are typically made of acrylic or stainless steel and provide protection and functionality until the permanent restoration is ready.
The choice of dental crown type depends on various factors, including the location of the tooth, aesthetic requirements, strength needed, and the patient’s preference. It’s best to consult with a dentist who can evaluate your specific case and recommend the most suitable type of crown for your dental needs.
What are the types of dental bridges?
Traditional bridges
The most typical kind of dental bridge is the traditional bridge. It involves creating a crown for the teeth on either side of the gap, called abutment teeth. These crowns serve as anchors, and the artificial tooth or teeth, known as pontics, are fused between them. The bridge is then cemented into place, providing a stable and permanent restoration.
Cantilever bridges
Cantilever bridges are similar to traditional bridges, but they are only supported by one dental crown rather than two. They are typically used in areas of the mouth where there is less stress on the teeth.
Maryland bridges
Maryland bridges are a type of dental bridge that is supported by a metal or porcelain framework that is bonded to the back of adjacent teeth. They are an excellent choice for patients who have healthy adjacent teeth but want to replace a missing tooth or teeth. Unlike traditional dental bridges, Maryland bridges do not require adjacent teeth to be reshaped or prepared, making them a less invasive option.
What is the procedure for dental crowns and dental bridges?
Initial consultation
Before the procedure, your dentist will perform a thorough examination of your teeth and gums to ensure that you are a good candidate for the procedure. They may also take X-rays or other diagnostic images to help determine the best treatment plan.
Your Individualised Treatment Plan
With all of this information, we create a unique treatment plan based on your smile and lifestyle. It may be the case that treatment is needed to address any oral health issues before placing the tooth crowns and bridges.
The treatment process for dental bridges
Your dentist will remove any decay or damage and shape the tooth to accommodate the crown or bridge.
For dental bridges, your dentist will begin by preparing your teeth adjacent to the gap for treatment. We then reshape the necessary teeth to allow room for the bridge to be placed over them. Your dental bridge is then checked and adjusted for the perfect fit. At this point, you may be required to visit again to check the fit and bite of your dental bridge and ensure it’s a proper fit.
The treatment process for both dental crowns
Your dentist will shave less than 1 mm only from the tooth and then take an impression of the tooth, along with the teeth surrounding it, which will be sent to a dental lab, for the permanent crown to be made.
By the end of your first visit, your tooth may have a temporary crown. This protects the tooth until the final crown is ready to be permanently placed.
Your Final Appointment
Once the dental crown and dental bridge(s) have healed, at your final appointment your dentist will ensure that all dental crowns and dental bridges are securely fixed and you have the smile of your dreams!
Aftercare
Here are some essential tips to keep your dental crowns and bridges in top shape:
Proper oral hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to the long-term success of your dental restoration. Be sure to brush and floss regularly, and use an antiseptic mouthwash to help prevent infection.
Follow-up appointments
Your dentist will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure your restoration is properly functioning. They may also recommend additional treatments, such as teeth cleaning or fluoride treatments, to help maintain your oral health.
Long-term maintenance
Dental crowns and bridges can last for many years with the right upkeep. However, they may need to be replaced eventually due to wear and tear or damage. Be sure to schedule regular checkups with your dentist to monitor the condition of your restorations and address any issues that may arise.
Overall, dental crowns and bridges are great dental restorations that can help restore oral function and improve the appearance of your smile.
If you’re wondering which cosmetic dental treatment is best for you, contact us today to book an appointment. Our experienced dentists have decades of experience creating perfect smiles with dental crowns and dental bridges in Kingsgrove.
