If you need to fix damaged teeth, a dentist may consider dental crowns and bridges in Spring, TX. Although they are similar procedures, they do differ in some ways that could be important to know.
Table of Contents
What Are Dental Crowns?
A crown is a fixed dental appliance that covers the tooth and helps to restore its shape and function. It can be made of metal, ceramic, or porcelain. Dental crowns are used when a tooth has been fractured or has suffered damage due to decay and other factors. They can be used in combination with other types of restorations like bridges or implants.
Dental crowns are made from porcelain and resin for the long-lasting protection of your natural teeth. They provide a new layer to an existing tooth that covers the entire tooth with a cap. These restorations give you new functionality, such as chewing or speaking more comfortably and protecting your natural teeth from further damage.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are a type of dental restoration that can be used to improve the appearance of teeth. They are made from a metal or porcelain material and are cemented between two teeth to restore function or aesthetics. They are permanent and are last for about 15 years. These bridges are available in different types, and a dentist near you will choose a suitable one based on the number and location of the missing teeth.
How Do They Differ?
Both the crowns and bridges improve the appearance of the teeth, but they differ in a few ways:
Design
Dental crowns are caps fixed on existing teeth to repair the appearance of the teeth. These caps are fixed and encase the teeth.
Dental bridges are restorations that use the crowns as support. These dental crowns are anchored in adjacent teeth to close the gaps.
Purpose
Dental crowns are one of the most common restorations that dentists use to cover the tooth. They can act as a strengthener or fillings for cavities or to prevent further decay.
Dental crowns are custom-made for each patient, and they can provide optimal support and protection for your teeth. They are used to cover a defective tooth and protect it from damage. They are also used to strengthen the teeth, prevent further cavities, and protect them from fractures and cracks.
Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth. They are fixed on adjacent teeth to bridge the gaps between the teeth and restore the smile.
Procedure
The procedure of fixing both the dental crowns and bridges is similar, and you will need at least two dental visits.
Our dentist in Spring will first examine the teeth and determine what type of dental crown or bridge is suitable for you.
For both procedures, the dentist will reshape the teeth to make room for the dental crowns. A cast of your reshaped teeth is taken to make the restorations, and it can take three weeks. The dentist will cover the teeth with temporary restorations to protect the teeth from sensitivity.
On the second dental visit, the dentist will cement the dental restorations in place.
Durability
The crowns and bridges can last between 10 and 15 years, and then you will need a replacement.
One thing to note is that the crowns and bridges are irreversible because once the teeth are reshaped, you cannot grow them back.
What Can You Expect After the Dental Crowns and Bridges Are Fixed?
Tooth sensitivity is a common complaint because of the reshaped teeth. The sensitivity, however, does not last for long, and you can use tooth-sensitive toothpaste to ease the discomfort.
The temporary crowns and bridges may also loosen, and it is important to take care of them to ensure that they don’t dislodge.
How Can You Protect Your Dental Crowns and Bridges?
One way to protect your dental crowns and bridges is to wear a mouthguard when playing sports or engaging in high-risk activities. Another way is by visiting the dentist every six months for an exam and cleaning.
The best way to avoid developing tooth decay over time is by taking good care of your teeth. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing, eating healthy foods, limiting sugar intake, and avoiding tobacco products.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Charm Dental for more information on dental crowns and bridges and when they are used.
