What are Dental Crowns and Bridges?

Dental crowns and tooth bridges are two types of prosthetic devices to replace missing teeth. Unlike other solutions such as dentures, crowns and bridges are both permanent.

What are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown or cap is a prosthetic tooth which can either be part of a dental implant when the entire tooth is missing, or it can be attached to a tooth that has been damaged but still has the root intact. In the second scenario, a dental crown can help to protect what is left of the natural tooth.

In the case of a dental implant, a titanium peg or “root” is inserted into the jaw bone and a dental crown is attached to it. Over time the jaw fuses to the titanium root and the implant becomes as strong as the natural tooth was. It also looks and feels completely natural, so only the patient and the patient’s dentist know that the tooth is prosthetic.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a solution that may be recommended if the patient is missing more than one consecutive teeth. A bridge consists of one or more prosthetic teeth that are cemented to the natural teeth on either side or to dental implants on either side. It is called a bridge because it literally bridges the gap where there are missing teeth.

Like implants, bridges can also look quite natural, however, they do not have the “root” that implants do.  If you have missing teeth and would like permanent replacements, you should arrange a consultation with your dentist to see whether implants or bridges would be the better option for you.

How to Care for Crowns or Bridges

One of the nice things about crowns and bridges is that because they are permanent, they do not require special care. You only need to brush and floss them as you would your natural teeth. With proper care, bridges and crowns can last a decade or even a lifetime. Keeping your surrounding teeth and gums healthy with good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups is one of the keys to making your crowns or bridges last as long as possible.

Contact Sunlight Dental Today

If you have missing teeth and think you might benefit from crowns or bridges, contact Sunlight Dental today and make an appointment with one of our dentists.