Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential in preventing damage to our teeth. However, in the case of tooth damage or loss, contemporary dentistry has offered a variety of solutions to restore the dead or missing teeth, significantly enhancing the quality of life for many people. Dental crowns and bridges are among the most practised restorative procedures. These adjuncts not only improve your appearance but also carry out the significant functions of improving your chewing ability and speech articulation.
Understanding Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped dental restorations, also known as caps and they are placed on weak or damaged teeth. They are custom-fitted to match your tooth’s shape, size, and color, restoring functionality and visual appeal.
When Would You Need a Dental Crown?
There are several reasons why your dentist might recommend a dental crown:
Tooth Damage: When a considerable proportion of the tooth structure is destroyed by decay or fracture, a crown provides strength and protection.
Post Root Canal Treatment: After undergoing a root canal procedure or endodontic therapy, the tooth loses vitality and is prone to fractures. A crown gives extra strength and decreases the possibility of future fractures.
Cosmetic Enhancement: A crown can be used to cover discolored or misshapen teeth, significantly improving a person’s smile and self-confidence.
Dental Implants: Dental crowns are used to finalize dental implant procedures, providing a durable and functional tooth-like structure.
The procedure of crown placement is often completed over two dental visits. During the first, your tooth is prepared, and impressions are taken to allow for customization. During the second visit, the permanent crown is fitted.
Understanding Dental Bridges
On the other hand, dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth. It’s a type of fixed oral prosthesis that bridges the gap left by one or more missing teeth. They are constituted by a series of connected crowns that utilize the support of the adjacent teeth (also known as abutment teeth) on either side of the gap.
When Would You Need a Dental Bridge?
Dental bridges are employed in the following scenarios:
Replacing a Tooth or Several Teeth: If one or several consecutive teeth are lost or need to extraction due to extensive decay or trauma, dental bridges come into use.
Preventing Misalignment: Missing teeth can cause the remaining to shift, leading to misalignment. Bridges help in maintaining the teeth alignment.
Restoring Functionality: Lost teeth can disrupt your ability to speak, chew, or bite effectively. Dental bridges restore these essential functions.
Restoring Aesthetics: An obvious gap from missing teeth affects the aesthetics of one’s smile. Dental bridges recreate a full smile, much improving one’s self-esteem.
Similar to crowns, placement of a dental bridge requires two dental visits. The first visit includes tooth preparation and impression making. The second visit concerns the fitting and adjusting of the permanent bridge.
Conclusion
The advent of dental crowns and bridges has revolutionized restorative dentistry. While both serve to restore the aesthetics and functionality of a smile, it’s crucial that they are cared for appropriately. Practise good oral hygiene — flossing, brushing twice daily, and regular dental appointments. Remember, the lifespan of your restoration not only depends on the quality of the procedure but also on your maintenance. In the competent hands of a skilled dental professional and your proper aftercare, your dental crowns and bridges can sever you for a long time, offering you a confident and evergreen smile!
