Replacing missing teeth with dental crowns and bridges is crucial for both aesthetic and functional reasons. When a tooth is lost due to decay, gum disease, or trauma, it can lead to various dental issues. The adjacent teeth may start to shift, causing further problems in the dental arch. If left untreated, this can result in more tooth loss and complications like gum disease.
Dental crown and bridge treatment offers a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. A dental crown is placed over an individual tooth when there’s not enough structure left for a filling. On the other hand, a dental bridge is used to span a gap left by missing teeth. It consists of crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap (abutments) and false teeth (pontics) to fill the space.
These crowns and bridges are typically made from high-quality materials like precious metals, porcelain, or a combination of metal fused to porcelain. The choice of material depends on factors such as aesthetics and function, ensuring both appearance and functionality are considered.
The treatment process begins with a thorough examination, evaluation of dental history, and X-rays. Once the need for dental crowns or bridges is determined, a series of appointments are scheduled. It’s crucial to attend these appointments to avoid delays in treatment and further complications due to tooth movement.
During the procedure, the tooth or teeth to be treated are numbed with an anesthetic, and then prepared by trimming them down to create space for the crown or bridge. An impression of the area is taken, and temporary coverage is provided until the next appointment. At the following appointment, the crown or bridge is adjusted for proper fit before permanent placement.
Several factors are considered during the procedure, including aesthetics, function, and tissue compatibility. This ensures that the crowns and bridges blend seamlessly with the natural teeth and promote optimal oral health.
Replacing missing teeth with dental crowns and bridges offers numerous benefits, including restoring the natural bite, preventing stress on other teeth, maintaining tooth alignment, preventing further decay and gum disease, and improving smile, speech, and chewing function.