Dental crowns and bridges are custom-fitted tooth prosthesis 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 the dentist. Patients who get crown or bridges to restore their smiles achieve both the function and appearance of natural, healthy teeth.
When is a crown or bridge required?
Crowns and bridges are used to repair a number of different dental problems. A crown can be used when:
- a tooth is fractured or damaged
- too much decay has weakened a tooth
- a tooth is severely discolored
- a tooth is misshapen A bridge is used to replace a missing tooth or teeth.
At Gentle dental care we offer a wide variety of crown and bridge options to select from which include:
- Metal crowns or bridges
- PFM (Porcelain-fused-to-metal)
- PFM (CAD-CAM TECHNOLOGY)
- Zirconia crowns (metal free)- monolith
How long will a bridge or crown last?
How long your crown and bridge lasts depends on the effectiveness and regularity of your dental hygiene routine. As a general rule, they last between 7-15 years but longer periods are certainly possible with outstanding oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
ORAL CARE FOR CROWNS & BRIDGES
- Keep your gums and teeth healthy by brushing with toothpaste twice a day.
- See your dentist or hygienist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
- To prevent damage to your new crown or bridge, avoid chewing hard foods, ice or other hard objects and sticky foods like chewing gums.