Restoring Your Smile with Crowns and Bridges
Crowns and bridges are popular dental solutions for restoring smiles affected by decay, damage, or missing teeth. Understanding these procedures can help you make informed choices for your dental health and boost your confidence. In this blog, we’ll explain what crowns and bridges are, how they work, and what to expect during the process.
What Are Dental Crowns and Bridges?
Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are typically recommended for:
- Damaged Teeth: If a tooth is cracked, severely worn, or has had root canal therapy, a crown can protect and stabilize it.
- Aesthetic Improvement: Crowns can improve the look of discolored or misshapen teeth, giving you a more uniform smile.
- Bridge Support: When a bridge is placed, crowns are often added to nearby teeth to anchor the bridge securely.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by “bridging” the gap between existing teeth. Bridges usually have two crowns on the anchoring teeth (called abutment teeth) and a false tooth (known as a pontic) in between.