Crowns
Crowns are synthetic caps, usually made of a material like porcelain, placed on the top of a tooth. Crowns are typically used to restore a tooth’s function and appearance following a restorative procedure such as a root canal.
When decay in a tooth has become so advanced that large portions of the tooth must be removed, crowns are often used to restore the tooth. Crowns are also used to attach bridges, cover implants, prevent a cracked tooth from becoming worse, or an existing filling is in jeopardy of becoming loose or dislocated. Crowns also serve an aesthetic use, and are applied when a discolored or stained tooth needs to be restored to its natural appearance.
Bridges
Dental bridges are often used when you have one or more teeth missing. This procedure is necessary because a gap caused by a missing tooth will eventually result in the remaining teeth shifting, which then causes a bite that is out of alignment. This is a common cause of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and it can also result in gum disease.
A bridge will span across the space where your teeth are missing. Dental bridges are then cemented onto your natural teeth or onto dental implants that are surrounding the empty space. A pontic (replacement tooth) is then used to cover the abutment
Caring for your Crowns and Bridges
It’s possible for dental crowns and bridges to last for a lifetime if you have good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth a minimum of twice daily and flossing at least once a day. Taking care of your teeth when you have crowns and bridges is no different than taking care of your natural teeth. Without proper dental care, decay caused by bacteria can negatively affect your gums and teeth. Another way to increase the longevity of crowns and bridges is by avoiding hard foods that can cause cracks and other damage.
All of your teeth play an important role in speaking, chewing, and in maintaining proper alignment of other teeth. Tooth loss doesn’t necessarily have to occur as you age, but if you do lose teeth, they must be replaced to maintain the proper function of your mouth. Fortunately, there are options for correcting tooth loss. Contact Dr. Keith Wolfenden to learn more about options for dental crowns and dental bridges in Berthoud, CO
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