Dental crowns and bridges are dental prosthetic devices used to restore and replace damaged, missing, or weakened teeth. Both crowns and bridges are fixed dental restorations, meaning they are cemented onto existing teeth or dental implants and cannot be removed by the patient.
A dental crown, also known as a dental cap, is a tooth-shaped covering that encases the entire visible portion of a damaged or decayed tooth above the gumline. Crowns are custom-made to match the shape, size, color, and appearance of the natural tooth, providing a natural-looking restoration.
A dental crown may be needed when a tooth is cracked, has a large cavity, or has minor damage. It can also be used to cover a tooth that has had a root canal.
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between adjacent teeth or dental implants. A traditional dental bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) attached to dental crowns or metal frameworks called abutments, which are cemented onto the natural teeth adjacent to the empty space.
Dental bridges restore the appearance, function, and alignment of the smile by filling in gaps left by missing teeth, improving chewing and speaking abilities, and preventing adjacent teeth from shifting out of position. A bridge is made up of two or more crowns and a false tooth, known as a pontic. Call us to learn more.
Advantages of Dental Crowns and Bridges
Dental crowns and bridges can improve the function of your teeth, your bite, and your smile. Dental bridges, fabricated to replace one or more missing teeth in a row, are generally used for one of two purposes: to fill in gaps in your smile or to replace missing teeth.
Dental bridges can be made using one or more of the following materials: gold, porcelain, or ceramic. The material used to create the bridge will depend on your specific needs, budget, and aesthetic goals. The dentist in Phoenix, AZ will review the options with you during the consultation to help find the best possible solution for your smile.
Procedure for Dental Crowns and Bridges
For dental crowns, the dentist in 85053 will prepare your tooth by reshaping it and taking a mold. Then, the dentist will take a dental impression of the teeth. After fabrication, the crown is placed and cemented using dental adhesives. This typically takes about two weeks.
For bridges, the dentist will first prepare the adjacent teeth. Then, a dental impression of the teeth is obtained which helps in the fabrication process. After it has been made, the dentist will cement the bridge in place. The entire procedure takes two weeks.
Both dental crowns and bridges are durable, long-lasting restorations that can improve the appearance, function, and health of the smile. They are custom-designed to meet the unique needs of each patient and provide reliable solutions for restoring damaged or missing teeth. If you are considering dental crowns or bridges, consult with your dentist to determine the best treatment option for your oral health needs.
Phoenix Family Dentistry, located in Phoenix, AZ, has the best dentists and is equipped with modern technologies that enable the best dental care services for our patients. To know more about crowns and bridges, call us at (602) 755-6684 and schedule an appointment with our dentist.
