Restoration
Crown and bridge work, also described as restorative dentistry, refers to
the restoration of natural teeth that have been damaged, decayed or lost.
Crowns and bridges can correct missing teeth, bite dysfunction, and functional
or structural problems. A crown may be constructed to restore an individual
damaged tooth back to its original form and function, while a bridge may be
utilized to replace one or more teeth. These restorations are cemented onto
the teeth and are referred to as "fixed" dentistry as opposed to
a restoration of missing teeth with a removable appliance or partial denture.
Bridges
Crowns
Bridges
Few incidents have greater impact on dental health and personal appearance
than tooth loss. When one or more teeth are missing, the remaining teeth can
drift out of position, which can lead to a change in the bite, the loss of
additional teeth, decay and gum disease.
When
tooth loss occurs, your dentist may recommend the placement of a bridge. Designed
to replace missing teeth and support surrounding teeth, a bridge is a grouping
of interconnected
crowns
. Held in place by two crowns,
a bridge can reduce the risk of gum disease, help correct bite issues and
even improve speech. If performed by a well-trained cosmetic dentist, bridges
are effective and durable and can last an excess of 10 years.
How
is a bridge constructed?
The dentist begins bridgework by filing down the teeth to accommodate the
crowns. Then the dentist will take impressions of the teeth, which will then
be used to create the crowns.
The
teeth on each side of the space are prepared and shaped to receive crowns.
An impression of the area is made. Once the crowns are finished, the false
tooth (or teeth) will be bonded to them. When the bridge is ready, a temporary
(or transitional) bridge is formed and fitted in the area. During the next
visit (usually a week later), the temporary bridge is removed and the permanent
fixed bridge is placed, adjusted and cemented into place.
Once
the bridgework is permanently cemented you may again enjoy your favorite foods
with confidence. Bridgework allows you to avoid that sunken-in appearance
caused by missing teeth and stabilizes that area of the dental arch to give
you a more youthful appearance, allowing you to smile once more with confidence.
Caring
For Your Bridge
The following recommendations will help to eliminate, or reduce, any oral
health problems while your teeth bonded by a bridge:
-
Brush your
teeth carefully after every meal with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled
toothbrush, as food may become lodged causing the gums and teeth to become
infected. This may lead to further complications resulting in the loss of
the bridge.
-
Floss daily.
Your dentist, or other oral health specialist, may recommend using a floss
threaded for hard-to-reach places between the bridge and its adjacent teeth.
-
Have your
teeth cleaned every 6 months by an oral health professional.
-
Limit your
sugar and starch intake, as debris left behind from these types of foods may
turn into damaging acids, which, in addition to promoting plaque formation,
may also be harmful to teeth and gums.
-
Avoid hard
and/or sticky snacks. This includes foods such as popcorn, hard or chew candy,
caramel, and/or nuts.
Most bridges
last 8 to 10 years with proper oral hygiene
Crowns
A crown is a prosthetic placed over an existing tooth to create a smoother,
cleaner look and enhance strength and durability. When a tooth is fractured,
has an outdated filling, or is severely damaged by decay, the placement of a
crown may be recommended. Crowns strengthen and protect the remaining tooth
structure and can improve the appearance of your smile. Types of crowns include
the full porcelain crown, the porcelain-fused-to-metal crown and the all-metal
crown.
The crown
restores the appearance of your teeth and can affect the muscles in your face.
A crown will be the same size and shape as the natural tooth. As a result, it
will keep your jaw and bite aligned; it will also make sure that other teeth
don't shift locations or take on a greater share of the work of biting and chewing.
Crown
Technology
Today's well-constructed crowns looks and functions just like natural teeth.
Crown technology has improved over the years, and older, less lifelike crowns
can be replaced with new ones. They are a great option when the damage or decay
is so extensive that filling materials cannot make the tooth strong enough.
Crowns are most often made of gold or porcelain but can also be made of stainless
steel. Porcelain crowns usually are so carefully matched in color, they cannot
be distinguished from your natural teeth. Many people choose porcelain crowns
for the cosmetic appearance and the confidence it gives them. New materials
are now available that allow the use of "all-ceramic" crowns in some
cases. Some people prefer not to use gold because it stands out from the other
teeth in appearance. At the same time, if the crown is on a back molar, some
people feel the cosmetic issue is not a big one. Your dentist will discuss the
types of materials available if a crown is recommended.
Protect
Your Crown
Once your crown is in place, make sure the area is brushed well and that you
floss below the gum line. While the crown protects your remaining tooth from
further decay, you must protect the base of the crown from bacterial growth
and gum disease. Regular brushing and flossing will ensure that your crown will
be in place for years to come.
Your
dentist may recommend a crown if your tooth has enough decay that it cannot
hold a filling, or if your tooth is cracked or broken and in danger of cracking
down into the root if left unattended.