Filling in the Gaps about Crowns and Bridges
Crowns and bridges are two of the most popular options for patients who want to replace missing or damaged teeth while maintaining proper mouth functioning. At Crookes & Jenkins, we pride ourselves in not only offering our clients a great service but also honest advice on treatments that might be beneficial to them.
Below is a list of what you should know if you are considering crowns or bridges:
What are crowns?
Common for correcting the appearance of your natural tooth, a crown is a device that fits over a tooth which is significantly weakened, in an attempt to restore its normal functionality. This is a popular procedure for patients who do not have sufficient tooth structure to hold a filling.
What are bridges?
If you have ever lost a tooth, you will understand that it is not only aesthetically unpleasing but that tooth loss affects the way in which you eat, speak, look and the structure of your remaining teeth! When your bone structure has failed you and teeth have been lost – bridges could just be the solution for you. Like the name suggests, a bridge connects the restorative bridge to your natural teeth, closing a gap that may have formed through missing teeth, and giving you the confidence to smile again. The main purpose of a bridge is to restore the normal functions and prevent future problems like tooth decay and gum disease that could result from missing teeth.
Crown and Bridge Procedure – What can you Expect?
Step 1: Our experienced dentists will inspect your teeth and establish if a crown or bridge is a viable option for you. X-rays will be done and your dental and medical history will be examined.
Step 2: If you are eligible for dental implants, an impression of the area will be made and a temporary crown will be placed on the tooth to protect your teeth until your next appointment.
Step 3: Adjustments to the bridge will be made before it is fitted.
Here are 5 advantages of crowns and bridges:
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Improves your chewing and speaking abilities
- Replaces lost teeth
- Offers support to remaining teeth
- Maintains your natural bite
- Prevents cavities and tooth decay
- Eliminates the risk of gum disease if cared for properly
- Prevents remaining teeth from shifting or becoming misaligned
- The bridge can also help to reduce the risk of bone loss from the jaw
- The devices help maintain the facial structure
- Bridges are fairly easy to maintain and most patients prefer it as over time, the device starts to feel ‘natural’ in their mouth
- Unlike dentures, bridges cannot be removed, which eliminates the risk of loss or breakage
Crowns and bridges are a long term solution to tooth loss. To find out more about crowns and bridges, contact us today.