Dental crowns and bridges are custom-fitted tooth prosthetics that are used to replace or restore damaged or missing teeth. Crowns – also known as caps – are fixed over the surfaces of natural tooth structures or dental implants. Bridges are used to fill in the gaps left by missing teeth and are anchored in place by the natural teeth or crowns nearest the empty space. Both crowns and bridges are non-removable and must be cemented in place by a registered dentist. Patients who get crown or bridges to restore their smiles achieve both the function and appearance of natural, healthy teeth.
A dental crown, also known as a tooth crown or tooth cap, is a dental restoration that is used to strengthen and protect a weakened or broken tooth. The crown of a natural tooth refers to the visible top point of a tooth, the part used for chewing. A dental crown is fitted over this top area to look and feel like a natural tooth, it can even be colour-matched based on your existing teeth.
A dental crown is necessary when a tooth has been severely damaged. It is also used after surgeries such as root canal where the sensitive inner layers of the tooth are exposed, a dental crown is fitted over the area to prevent bacteria from entering. Sometimes, temporary crowns are used during lengthy procedures.
Firstly, the Townsville dentist will slightly file down and remove part of the outer layer of the tooth (enamel). This is to allow the crown to fit neatly over the tooth like a cap.
An impression will then be made of your shaved tooth and the surrounding teeth. This is important, as it is sent to a dental lab so they can create a custom crown that fits you. There may be a bit of wait for your crown is being made in the dental lab. In these cases, the dentist will place a temporary crown over your tooth to protect it.
When the dental crown is ready, a dental appointment is made for yoru fitting. During the appointment, the dentist in Townsville will check that it is an appropriate size, shape and colour to suit you. If any adjustments need to be made, your dentist will take care of them there or organise to have them made in the lab.
A dental bridge, also known as a tooth bridge, is a dental restoration that can replace one or multiple missing teeth in a row. They are artificial teeth that fill in missing tooth gaps by joining adjacent natural teeth, or dental implants. Similar to crowns, dental bridges look and feel like natural teeth.
A dental bridge is recommended for patients with missing teeth who still have healthy natural teeth on either side of the tooth gaps. They can be a great solution for patients who have lost teeth due to conditions such as severe tooth decay, gum disease or dental injuries. They can also be useful for patients born with missing teeth due to congenital conditions.
The fitting process for a dental bridge is similar to that of a crown. The dental bridge is attached to the neighbouring teeth on either side of the missing tooth gap, similar to how a crown is fitted over the remaining part of the natural tooth or dental implants.
So, the preparation process for a bridge involves the dentist shaping the surrounding teeth where it will be attached. The dentist will then take a mould of the area so that a custom dental bridge can be made for you. This takes place in a dental lab and involves a wait time which could last a few weeks, in the meantime the dentist will provide you with a temporary bridge.
When your bridge is ready, a dental appointment will be made for a professional fitting. During your appointment, the dentist will replace your temporary bridge with your permanent bridge and ensure that it fits correctly.
If you have a tooth that is damaged or decayed, but still intact, a dental crown may be right for you. If your tooth is missing, but its former position is surrounded by other tooth structures, a bridge may be the solution for you. Schedule a consultation at our Townsville Dental Clinic to determine whether you could benefit from crowns or bridges in Townsville.
Dental Crowns and Bridges share a lot of similarities when it comes to their advantages. Some of the benefits experienced by patients with either of these restorations are:
To learn more information, or enquire about dental crown and bridge costs and your eligibility for these procedures, book a consultation at Deeragun Dental today. Our friendly dentists in Townsville will take you through everything you need to know about these popular restorative dentistry treatments.
If you are interested in getting dental crowns or bridges, we will provide a thorough examination to determine your eligibility and all the resources you need to make the best decisions for your dental and oral health.
Deeragun Dental, your premier dental practice in Deeragun, Townsville, offers a modern, spacious, and hygienic environment, equipped with the latest advancements in dental treatment, technology, and patient care.
