Crown and Bridge Placement

Crowns and bridges are among the most common dental restoration methods used to repair damaged or missing teeth.

A crown is a cap that is placed over a tooth or dental implant to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance.

A bridge, on the other hand, is used to fill the space of one or more missing teeth, anchoring onto adjacent teeth or implants for support.

Application and Materials

Crowns and bridges are used when teeth are significantly damaged and cannot be restored with fillings or other conservative methods. They are also ideal for patients who have lost multiple teeth, as bridges can restore chewing function and improve the appearance of the smile.

Crowns and bridges are made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, gold, and other metal alloys.

• Porcelain and ceramic are preferred for visible areas because they closely resemble natural tooth enamel.
• Metals are often used for back teeth due to their durability and strength.

Procedure

The process of placing a crown or bridge typically requires multiple dental visits.

1. First, the dentist prepares the teeth by removing a portion of the enamel to create space for the crown or bridge.
2. Then, a dental impression is taken and sent to a laboratory, where the custom crown or bridge is fabricated.
3. Once ready, the final restoration is permanently fixed in place using special dental cement.

Benefits

Crowns and bridges provide a long-lasting solution for restoring both function and appearance. They:

• Enhance your smile
• Restore natural chewing ability
• Help distribute bite force properly
• Reduce the risk of damage to neighboring teeth

With proper care, crowns and bridges can last for many years, offering patients confidence, comfort, and a natural look.

Care and Maintenance

To extend the life of your crowns and bridges, it’s essential to:

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day
• Use dental floss to clean around the restoration
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups

Routine dental visits allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your restorations and take early action if any issues arise.

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