Crowns and bridges are fixed, non-removable prosthetic devices that are firmly cemented onto existing teeth or implants, and can only be removed by a licensed dentist.
Crowns are also known as caps, which is placed on top of a damaged tooth or an implant to improve its appearance and functionality. In order to match the colour of your natural teeth, porcelain or ceramic crowns can be used. In addition, other materials such as ivory, gold, metal alloys, and acrylic can also be used. It is vital to note that these alloys are usually much stronger than porcelain.
Discoloured teeth
When teeth begin to grow darker in colour are are becoming more transparent, then it suggests that your teeth are wearing down. In such cases, it is best to consult a dentist who may recommend a crown restoration.
Replacing a large filling
When teeth are heavily filled, they carry a risk of fractures and de-bonding of fillings. Even due to repeated dental treatments on the same tooth again and again may cause deepening of the filling, subsequently leading to nerve inflation. In such cases, your dentist may recommend a crown restoration before the filling becomes too large.
Post root canal treatment
Root canal filled teeth are highly susceptible to fractures. Therefore, in such cases, dentists usually recommend crowning the root canal filled tooth in order to protect the tooth from fractures and further infections.
A bridge may be recommended if you are missing one or more teeth. The gaps left by missing teeth usually cause an imbalance in the mouth, leading to gum diseases and joint disorders. That’s why, it is pertinent to replace the missing teeth. Bridges are generally cemented on natural teeth or implants surrounding the empty spaces.
There are three main types of bridges
Traditional bridge
This is the most common type of dental bridge and are either made of porcelain fused to ceramic or metal.
Cantilever bridge
This type is usually used to replace only one tooth.
Maryland bonded bridge
In this type, the bridge is made of plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal framework.
In the process of placing a crown or bridge, your teeth will be reduced to ensure a proper fit. First and foremost, an impression will be taken of your bite, which will be used to fabricate a mold for the crown or bridge. For porcelain prosthesis, the colour will be matched to the natural shade of your other teeth.
When a damaged or decayed tooth is fully intact, a crown may be suitable for you. On the other hand, if a tooth is missing, but its former position is surrounded by other tooth structures, then a bridge may be advisable for you. It is best to schedule an appointment with a dentist to determine whether do you really need a crown or a bridge.