Crowns & Bridges
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, the use of crowns and bridges is on the rise. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, 15 million people in the United States have crowns or bridges to replace missing teeth. Jeffrey Shapiro, DDS, and the team at Complete Dental Care of Jamesburg have years of experience in performing restorative treatments like crowns and bridges. Schedule a consultation today by calling the office in Jamesburg, New Jersey, or book online today.
Crowns and Bridges Q & A
What are dental crowns and bridges?
A dental crown is a protective covering or cap that’s placed on top of a damaged tooth. Crowns are sculpted to match the shape of your original natural tooth, strengthening it and restoring its appearance. A crown completely covers the portion of your tooth that can be seen above the gum line and is sealed in place with dental cement.
As its name indicates, a bridge bridges the gap left behind by a missing tooth or teeth and provides adequate replacements. Bridges are either are cemented into place or fixed to implants or your existing teeth.
When are dental crowns or bridges necessary?
There are several reasons that Dr. Shapiro and his team at Complete Dental Care of Jamesburg might recommend a crown or bridge. Crowns can cover a strangely shaped or dark tooth or a dental implant. They can also protect and strengthen teeth that need strengthening or replacing as a result of severe decay, cracks, fractures, or fillings.
Dental bridges can replace missing teeth and keep existing teeth from shifting and rotating into the vacant space. This is important because shifted teeth can lead to malocclusion, leading to other oral health problems.
Dental crowns and bridges also offer the additional cosmetic benefit of restoring your smile.
What are the different types of dental crowns and bridges?
Dental crowns and bridges can be constructed from many materials, including:
- Stainless steel
- Gold or another alloy
- Porcelain fused to metal
- Resin
- Ceramic
- Zirconia
The material used for your crown or bridge depends on your unique situation. For instance, stainless steel is usually the go-to material for temporary crowns. It’s common for dentists to use prefabricated stainless steel crowns to cap children’s baby teeth.
Metal crowns and bridges are very sturdy and can endure the impact of biting and chewing, but because of their color, they’re usually reserved for use on back molars. On the other hand, porcelain fused to metal crowns and bridges mimic the appearance of your natural teeth. However, they do cause more wear-and-tear to the opposing teeth than other types of crowns.
Resin crowns and bridges are generally a less expensive option, but they’re also more prone to cracking, whereas ceramic crowns and bridges are the best options for people who have metal allergies.
What should I expect when getting a dental crown or bridge?
In most cases, two visits are required for dental crowns and/or bridges. The first visit includes X-rays so that Dr. Shapiro can evaluate the condition of the tooth in question.
Next, he uses a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and the surrounding tissue. The existing compromised tooth is filed down or built up so that the crown fits properly and securely. Once the tooth has been prepared, Dr. Shapiro takes digital impressions of your teeth, which a lab uses to manufacture your crown or bridge.
Dr. Shapiro fabricates a temporary crown or bridge to safeguard your tooth until the permanent one is completed and in place.
To discuss your tooth replacement options in greater detail, call Complete Dental Care of Jamesburg, or book an appointment online today.