Crowns and Bridges
Crowns: A crown is a cap that encases the entire tooth surface, restoring it to its original shape and size. Crowns protect and strengthen the tooth structure, which cannot be restored by any other type of restoration. Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth coloured crowns are the most popular because they resemble natural teeth the best. They are made to match the shape, size and colour of natural teeth. Crowns are highly durable and will last many years, but they eventually need to be replaced.
This procedure generally takes 2 appointments to complete. It is common for patients who undergo this procedure to experience tooth sensitivity, soreness in the gums, and a general discomfort with the teeth. After the placement of the permanent crown, this should go away.
While you have your temporary crown is in place, you should avoid chewing sticky or hard food. That is because temporary crowns are only placeholders, and they are made of plastic or soft metal. Once you have a permanent crown in place, you may feel pressure for several days, and your bite may feel different. If the feeling continues for longer than two or three days, call the office immediately.
The reasons why you would need a crown:
- Tooth has a root canal.
- Decayed teeth.
- Fractured fillings.
- Broken teeth.
- Cosmetic enhancement.
Bridges: Dental bridges literally bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. A bridge is made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a has false tooth/teeth in between. Bridges are cemented onto existing teeth by the dentist and can be easily removed. If the patient doesn’t want a bridge, there are other options such as placing an implant in the space of the missing tooth.
Reason for Bridges:
- Replace missing tooth<./li>
- Restore your smile.
- Prevent remaining teeth from shifting.
- Maintain facial shape.