What is Crown and Bridges?
Crowns and bridges are common dental prosthetic devices used to restore and enhance the appearance and function of teeth.
A crown, also known as a dental cap, is a tooth-shaped covering that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its strength, shape, size, and appearance. Crowns are typically made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these materials. They are custom-made to match the color and shape of the natural teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing restoration.
Bridges, on the other hand, are used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between adjacent teeth. A bridge consists of artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are anchored to the natural teeth or dental implants on either side of the gap. The natural teeth or implants that support the bridge are known as abutments. Like crowns, bridges can be made from various materials and are designed to blend in with the surrounding natural teeth for a natural-looking restoration.
What Does Getting a Tooth Bridge Involve?
Getting a tooth bridge involves a multi-step dental procedure aimed at replacing one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between existing teeth. The process typically begins with a comprehensive dental examination and consultation to assess the patient’s oral health and determine the most suitable treatment plan.
During the initial visit, the dentist prepares the abutment teeth, which are the adjacent teeth on either side of the gap, by reshaping them to accommodate the bridge. This involves removing a portion of the enamel to create space for the bridge’s crowns.
Next, the dentist takes impressions or digital scans of the prepared teeth and the surrounding area to ensure an accurate fit for the bridge. These impressions are sent to a dental laboratory, where the bridge is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of the patient’s natural teeth.
What Are the Benefits of Getting a Dental Bridge?
- Restores the look of your smile
- Allows you to speak and chew normally
- Maintains facial structure
- Prevents other teeth from shifting
- Affordable alternative to other teeth replacement methods such as dental implants