Crowns and bridges are excellent for restoring damaged teeth and restoring their strength and function. They can also significantly enhance the appearance of your teeth. Unlike the other prosthetic devices like dentures, they cannot be removed. They are fixed permanently to the teeth.
A crown fits over the prepared tooth, replacing the natural tooth.
A bridge replaces more than one tooth. It is similar to a crown, with an attached tooth, to replace a missing tooth.
Dental Crowns & Bridges procedure
An impression of your teeth is taken at the first appointment, to record your bit and shape of your teeth.
Once you decide to go ahead with the procedure, the dentist will first prepare the tooth. This involves trimming the enamel of the tooth to receive the crown. It will be trimmed to a suitable size so the crown can easily fit over it.
Another impression of the trimmed teeth is taken to customize the crown or bridge for a perfect fit. The position of the neighbouring teeth is also assessed by taking this impression so that fewer adjustments will need to be made. A temporary crown is made by the dentist and placed to protect your trimmed tooth while the crown is being prepared at the lab.
During the next appointment, the new crown will be placed on your tooth. Any adjustments can be made to ensure the colour and bite are natural
Dental bridges also have a similar process, impressions are taken to prepare the bridge. The bridges are custom made depending on this information – they need to sit perfectly in the space left by the missing teeth.
Caring for Crowns and Bridges
Just like normal teeth crowns and bridges require daily flossing and brushing. Dentists will even recommend special floss called Super floss to help you clean under your new bridge. Having your crown or bridge checked regularly by your dentist is highly advised.
