Both dental crowns and most bridges are fixed prosthetic devices. Unlike removable devices such as dentures, which you can take out and clean daily, dental crowns and bridges are cemented onto existing teeth or implants, and can only be removed by a dentist.
How do crowns work?
A dental crown is used to entirely cover or cap a damaged tooth. Besides strengthening a damaged tooth, a dental crown can be used to improve its appearance, shape or alignment. A dental crown can also be placed on top of a dental implant to provide a tooth-like shape and structure for function. Porcelain or ceramic crowns can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth.
Dentist in Mississauga may recommend a crown to:
1. Replace a large filling when there is not enough tooth remaining.
2. Protect a weak tooth fracturing.
3. Restore a fractured tooth.
4. Attach a bridge.
5. Cover a dental implant.
6. Cover a discolored or poorly shaped tooth.
7. Cover a tooth that has had root canal treatment.
How do Bridges work?
A bridge mat be recommended if you have missing teeth. Gaps left by missing teeth eventually cause the remaining teeth to rotate or shift into the empty spaces, resulting in a bad bite. The imbalance caused by missing teeth can also lead to gum disease and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Bridges are commonly used to replace one or more missing teeth. They span the space where the teeth are missing. Bridges are cemented to the natural teeth or dental implants surrounding the empty space. These teeth, called abutments, serve as anchors for the bridge. A replacement tooth, called a pontic, is attached to the dental crowns that cover the abutments.
How are crowns and bridges made?
Before either a dental crown or a bridge can be made, the tooth or teeth must be reduced in size so that the dental crown or bridge. If porcelain is to be used, your dentist in Mississauga will determine the correct shade for the dental crown or bridge to match the color of your existing teeth.
A temporary crown or bridge will be out in place to cover the prepared tooth while the permanent crown or bridge is being made. When the permanent crown or bridge is ready, the temporary crown or bridge is removed, and the new crown or bridge is cemented over your prepared teeth.
How long do crowns and bridges last?
While crowns and bridges and last a lifetime, they do sometimes come loose or fall out. The most important step you can take to ensure the longevity of your crown or bridge is to practice good oral hygiene. A bridge can lose its support if the teeth or bone holding it in place are damaged by dental disease. Keep your gums and teeth healthy by brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and flossing daily. Visiting your dentist in Mississauga and hygienist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
In order to prevent damage to your new dental crown or bridge, avoid chewing hard foods, ice or other hard objects.
