Dental Crowns & Bridges
Crowns and bridges are prosthetic dental devices that are cemented to the existing teeth and can only be removed by your dentist unlike dentures which can be easily removed from the mouth.
Crowns
A crown or hollow cap which is used to cover the top of a tooth which has become damaged or decayed to a point where it cannot be restored by just filling. The crown adds strength to the tooth below and can also improve the aesthetics of the tooth if it was originally discoloured, out of shape or misaligned. Crowns are made from various materials with gold and metal alloys offering the most strength hence them being used for back teeth which a predominantly used most when chewing. Porcelain or ceramic crowns are not as strong but they can be coloured matched to the surrounding teeth which is excellent for the appearance of the front teeth. An excellent compromise is a metal structure with porcelain surround which is visually appealing and has strength.
Before a crown can be fitted the dentist has to make the tooth smaller so that it will fit over the top of it. He will then create a mould by taking an impression of the teeth which can be sent to the lab where they will create the crown using the material requested by you and your dentist. If you have chosen porcelain your dentist will also choose the appropriate colour shade. Your dentist will make and fit a temporary crown which will remain in place until the permanent crown is received from the lab. On the next appointment the dentist will remove the temporary crown and fit the permanent one also making any minor adjustments to ensure that positioning and bite are correct.
Bridges
The dentist may suggest a bridge if you have a tooth or teeth missing. A bridge has a crown at each end which is cemented to the existing teeth on either side of the gap and a replacement tooth known as a “pontic” is attached in the middle of the two eradicating that gap. Bridges are also made from various materials which vary in both look and cost. Ceramic and porcelain bridges like crowns can be colour matched to the same colour as the surrounding teeth.
The creation and fitting process for a bridge is the same as for a crown but the two teeth either side of the space will be prepared.
IPS e.max® Dental Crowns
One Dental are excited to be able to offer the new technology IPS e.max® dental crowns and bridges which are made from lithium disilicate glass ceramic. This material is excellent for this purpose as it has the cosmetic appearance of a full ceramic crown but it is incredibly strong and very durable. Your dentist will be happy to offer this as an option when deciding on crown or bridge work.
Crown & Bridge Dental Care
Crowns and bridges are designed to last a long period of time but it is important that the teeth and gums around the restoration are kept healthy and free from disease. Good oral hygiene is crucial so thorough daily tooth brushing is imperative and using dental floss or interdental brushes will keep hard to reach areas around the crown or bridge and below the gum line healthy too.