Dental Crowns & Bridges are restorative tools that strengthen and restore tooth structure to the mouth. They are often used in conjunction with other treatments like root canals and fillings. They improve the health and function of your teeth, restoring the appearance of your smile. Click here for more details about crowns and bridges.
Traditionally made of metal, today’s crowns are strong, durable shells of tooth-colored porcelain that completely cover a damaged or missing tooth or dental implant. We use impressions or in-house 3D CAD/CAM technology for optimal fit, function and a natural look.
When a tooth is cracked or badly decayed, a crown can save the original tooth and prevent the need for extraction. Unlike fillings, which can crack and wear away over time, a crown covers the whole tooth with a new layer of enamel.
A crown is also a great choice when the existing tooth is not healthy or when it has extensive damage from an injury or trauma. We’ll remove any decay or weakened areas and then shape the tooth to provide a strong foundation for the crown.
Another benefit of a crown is that it can help to support a large filling or an implant. These restorations are made from a variety of materials, including gold and metal alloys, ceramic, porcelain fused to a metal, or acrylic.
Porcelain, acrylic, and metal-bonded options are all known for their durability. However, they may not quite match your natural teeth in color and texture, so your dentist will work with you to determine the best material for your particular situation.
If you’ve lost a tooth due to disease or an accident, a bridge can help replace the gap caused by the missing tooth. During the first visit, your teeth on either side of the gap (called abutment teeth) are prepared and impressions are taken, from which a bridge, pontic, and crowns will be made by a dental lab.
During the second appointment, your doctor will bond the bridge to the abutment teeth to make sure that it fits securely. Once the bridge is ready, a temporary one will be placed in place while you wait for your permanent bridge to be made.
It’s important to keep the bridge clean, so a daily toothbrush and flossing are recommended. You should also try to avoid chewing on hard foods that can cause the crown or bridge to chip or break.
While there is no way to guarantee the lifespan of a crown or bridge, they can typically last 10 to 15 years when given proper care. Regular brushing, flossing, and visits to your dentist are key to extending their life.
Dental implants are another option to replacing teeth, but a crown is the preferred choice of most patients. An implant is made from strong, biocompatible materials and has an attractive appearance when matched to the patient’s other teeth.
If you are suffering from a broken or damaged tooth and want to have it fixed, talk to the best dentist in Sarasota Florida about getting a crown or a bridge. The team at Blue Ash Dental Group can help you get the dental crown or bridge that will restore your smile and help you feel confident again.
