Things to be aware of Dental Bridges and Crowns
Dental bridges and Crowns are fixed prosthetic devices for teeth and are two of the most convenient and easiest ways to fix missing or damaged teeth.
Considered both restorative and cosmetic in nature, dental bridges and crowns will give you the confidence to smile again without feeling self-conscious about your teeth. Dental crowns are used when the tooth structure is damaged or fractured, and a bridge is used when one or more teeth are missing.
Dental bridges
Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that bridge the gap between one or more missing teeth. The bridges are set into the teeth or already existing implants and cemented into shape, closing the gap to create a natural-looking smile.
Benefits of dental bridges
- Replaces a missing tooth, or teeth
- Improves the ability to eat and speak
- Restores your smile
- Maintains the shape of your face
- Prevents the rest of your teeth from shifting positions
Dental bridge procedure
A dental bridge treatment procedure includes:
- The dentist will prepare the teeth surrounding the gap for treatment. This includes reshaping them so the bridge can be placed over them.
- Impressions of your teeth will be made to serve as a model for your dental bridge to ensure it is a proper fit and the right colour.
- Once the bridge has been made, your dentist will call you to come in so your dental bridge can be adjusted and fitted.
Things to be aware of
- You may have to go to the dentist more than once to ensure that the fit and bite of the bridge continues to be correct.
- If the dental bridge is a ‘fixed bridge’ it might have to be put into place temporarily to ensure that it fits properly before being cemented into place.
- Dental bridges usually last between 5-15 years, depending on each patient and how well the bridge is looked after.
- If you’re feeling pain in your dental bridge, be sure to contact your dentist as they can determine the cause of the pain.
Types of dental bridges
The type of dental bridges include:
Traditional bridges
The most common type of dental bridge. Made from porcelain which is fused to either metal or ceramic. A crown is created for the tooth or implant on either side of the gap with a pontic (artificial tooth) in between. Can be used when there are natural teeth on both sides of the gap.
Cantilever bridges
Used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth. The pontic is held in place by a dental crown that is cemented by one supporting tooth. Best suited for placement at the back of the mouth where it can’t place pressure on other teeth and damage them.
Maryland bridges (resin-bonded bridges)
A framework is made from porcelain or porcelain fused to metal which connects to two adjacent teeth. Metal or porcelain wings protrude from one side of the bridge which are bonded to the existing teeth. Can only be used when there is a natural tooth on both sides of the gap.
Implant-supported dental bridge
The use of dental implants instead of dental crowns or frameworks. One implant is placed for every missing tooth which holds the bridge in place. If one implant for each missing tooth isn’t possible, the bridge can have a pontic suspended between two implant-supported crowns.
Requires two surgeries: one to embed the implants in the jawbone and a second surgery to place the bridge.
Dental crowns
Dental crowns are a cap or cover that is put over a damaged tooth to restore it to its normal size and shape. The crowns can be made from ceramics, metal alloys, porcelain or resin.
Benefits of dental crowns
- Fixes the appearance of teeth that are damaged or cracked
- Covers badly shaped or discoloured teeth
- Improves the look of smiles
- Protects a weak tooth
- Covers a tooth that has had root canal treatment
- Holds a dental bridge in place
Dental crown procedure
A dental crown procedure includes:
- Removing the decayed/damaged parts of your tooth.
- Scanning the tooth with a digital scanner
- Designing the crown with 3D software.
- Cutting the crown into shape.
- Bonding the crown to the tooth.
Things to be aware of
- Once the crown has been bonded to your tooth, you can eat and drink straight away.
- The procedure usually takes one visit which is over 2 hours long.
- A dental crown can last up to 7-15 years depending on how well it is taken care of.
Types of dental crowns
The different types of dental crowns include:
Porcelain fused to metal
It looks like porcelain, but it is stronger as it is attached to a metal structure. A popular choice with patients who want the strength of a metal crown but don’t want the metallic look.
All-resin dental crowns
Made from dental composite resin and blends in well with the surrounding teeth. One of the more affordable dental crown options and only requires minimal teeth preparation.
All-porcelain dental crowns
Also known as all-ceramic crowns. Made using porcelain and ceramics. They are metal-free and a good choice for those who are allergic to metal. Can be colour-matched to surrounding teeth and are often used for cosmetic dental treatments to restore the size, shape and colour of the tooth.
Metal dental crowns
Made out of metal and are usually made from gold, platinum, copper and cobalt-chromium. Metal crowns are a mix of precious metals and base metal alloys.
Bruxzir crown
Made from zirconia (a member of the titanium family). They are porcelain-free, as strong as metal and have an aesthetic appearance.
Stainless steel dental crowns
Used mainly in children as they do not last long and are supposed to come out with the loss of the primary tooth. Can also be used as a temporary crown for adults.
How to take care of your dental bridge and crowns
- Brush and floss daily
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleaning
- Stay away from chewing hard food like candy or ice
At Advanced Dental Cammeray, we have almost 20 years of dental experience and take pride in offering the highest quality service with state-of-the-art equipment, pain-free techniques, and personalised attention to each of our patients.
If you are in need of dental bridge or dental crown treatment, please contact us at (+612 9922 6022) or smile@advanceddental.com.au. We are always more than happy to help you make an informed decision about your treatment options.