Crowns and Bridges

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental crown can cap an individual’s damaged or decaying tooth or be placed on top of a dental implant to replace a missing tooth. Dental implants are metal fixtures, surgically fastened to your jawbone below the gums. These metal implants become anchored to your bone through osseointegration (the bone fuses to the metal). This process provides stable support you can rely on while eating and speaking. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the healing process after getting an implant can take 6-12 weeks. Your dental professional will then place a metal post (or abutment) into your implant, onto which they will mount your crown.

How do Bridges Work?

Whereas crowns can repair damaged teeth, a bridge’s sole function is to replace one or more missing teeth. For a bridge, your dental professional will place caps on filed-down teeth or dental implants at the outer edges of your area of loss. Replacement teeth (called pontics) span the space between the caps where the teeth are missing.

When Do You Need Crowns or Bridges?

Crowns and bridges are highly economical options for various tooth related problems. The major need for crowns and bridges arises when you lose the tooth due to decay, trauma, periodontal problems, cosmetic needs, or avulsion. They are made of metal, ceramic or zirconia and are highly biocompatible. However, there are many other cases where the crown and bridges may be needed.

Classic Signs Suggestive of Crowns and Bridges

Tooth decay

When tooth decay has progressed to a point where a filling is no longer a viable option, a dental crown may be necessary to restore the tooth.

Root canal treatment

After a root canal procedure, a tooth may become weakened and require a crown to protect it from further damage.

Tooth fracture

A cracked or broken tooth may require a crown to prevent further damage and restore the tooth’s function.

The Procedure of Crowns and Bridges

  • Evaluation: The first step is for the dentist to evaluate the tooth and determine if a crown or a bridge is necessa
  • Tooth Preparation: The tooth is then prepared by removing any decay or damage and reshaping it to make room for the crown.
  • Impression Making: An impression of the tooth or multiple teeth is then taken to create a custom-fit crown through the custom trays using alginate (dental impression material)
  • Temporary crown: A temporary crown or a bridge may be placed on the tooth to protect the fiction and the aesthetics while the permanent crown is being made.
  • Crown or Bridge Cementation: Once the permanent crown is ready, it is cemented onto the tooth and adjusted for a comfortable fit. All the high points from the crown or bridge are removed to ensure a comfortable fit.