Tooth inconsistencies like cracks and fractures could impact your confidence and mental wellness. Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry offers effective interventions to boost your oral health. You can address dental anomalies by fitting crowns and bridges Boynton Beach. Below is a breakdown of the types of crowns and bridges, differences, and treatment processes.
What is a dental crown?
A crown is a metal or porcelain tooth-like cap that covers the tooth substituting the tooth’s enamel. It protects the dentin and pulp from infection or damage after the tooth sustains severe damage. The crown is fitted on the tooth with a specialized dental adhesive.
Your dentist may propose a crown for cracked teeth but with minimal damage to the underlying tissue. Fractures can lead to tooth sensitivity, which you may experience when taking hot or freezing foods and beverages. A crown can address sensitivity and restore the tooth’s function.
A crown can be a suitable cover for the tooth after a root canal procedure. It protects the teeth from considerable damage due to decay. Root canal treatment removes the dental pulp, including nerves and blood vessels leaving the tooth hollow.
A porcelain cap holds together the tooth to minimize the risk of cracks. Dentists typically prescribe a crown if the damage exceeds a third of the enamel’s area.
It functions as the upper portion of the dental implant to complete the structure of an artificial tooth. Since it mimics the tooth’s enamel color and form, it can restore aesthetics. It is suitable for enhancing the smile when other dental techniques are not feasible.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a dental prosthetic for patients with one or more missing teeth. A conventional bridge may consist of three crowns stuck together to form one complete structure. The two crowns on each end use teeth adjacent to the gap for support.
Placing a bridge may require shaving the two adjacent teeth to fit the dental device. The inner crown looks and functions the same way as the missing tooth. It can enhance your smile and allow you to eat your favorite foods.
Another variation is an implant-supported bridge, which utilizes an implant for support. Since it does not require an adjacent tooth as a conventional bridge, it can replace multiple lost teeth. The root is embedded into the jawbone, stimulating the bone and limiting resorption.
Which one should you choose?
Bridges, crowns, and implant-supported bridges have numerous benefits for your oral health. They have unique features, which makes each option suitable for different situations.
A crown is ideal for teeth with considerable damage that does not affect the pulp or nerve tissues. It is unsuitable where the tooth requires removal due to extensive fractures or infections.
A bridge is more suitable where the tooth is missing following an extraction. If the adjacent teeth cannot support the bridge, your dentist may propose an implant-supported bridge.
Nevertheless, the choice of dental device typically depends on your dentist’s evaluation. Your dental specialist will run tests and assess your oral health before recommending a crown or bridge.
To find out the best option for your case, call Hugh B. Rosenblatt, D.M.D., P.A., or schedule an appointment online today.
