Your smile is important to your confidence as well as your overall health. Over time, things like decay, injury, or just the wear and tear of life can leave your pearly whites cracked, chipped, or even lost completely. Luckily, both crowns and bridges can restore both your smile’s function and appearance. These are custom-made restorations shaped to fit, so you can use the full function of your mouth for eating, speaking, and smiling.
Dental crowns and bridges are custom-made for your exact situation and provide a strong, long-term solution for replacing your failing teeth. These restorative dental treatments can be the perfect solution for you to restore one or several damaged teeth and can last for years in your smile!
What Are Dental Crowns and Bridges?
People commonly use dental crowns and bridges as restorative treatments for damaged or lost teeth. A dental crown is a personalized cap designed to cover a tooth, restoring its original size and shape and improving its strength. They are most commonly used when a tooth has been weakened by decay or damage, or when a root canal has been performed.
Unlike a dental implant, which is used to replace a single missing tooth to fill the gap when one or more teeth are missing, a dental bridge is attached to an existing tooth. The bridge is secured to the natural teeth, or dental implants, on each side of the gap.
Crowns and bridges are constructed from durable materials, including porcelain and Zirconia that closely resemble the natural look and function of teeth. This will ensure that the restoration integrates smoothly with your current smile.
How Custom Crowns and Bridges are Made
Getting bridges and dental crowns in Grosse Pointe and Harper Woods is usually a multi-step process, where each part, from the consultation to the fitting, is important. Here’s what you can expect throughout the procedure:
- Consultation and Examination: Your dentist at Falcon Dental Group will start by examining your teeth and discussing your dental history. An X-ray may also be performed to evaluate the condition of neighboring teeth and gums. Your dentist will then recommend the best course of treatment, if needed.
- Preparing the Tooth (For Crowns): If you are receiving a dental crown, the damaged tooth will be reshaped to ensure that the crown fits over it tightly. If the tooth is too decayed, the dentist will add a buildup to restore its structure before placing a crown.
- Taking an Impression and Design: After that, an impression of your teeth is made. Based on this impression, an individual-made crown or bridge will be created, matching the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. The impressions are then sent to a dental lab, and your restoration is fabricated.
- Temporary Restoration: If you need a custom crown or bridge, you may receive a temporary restoration while the permanent one is being made to protect the treated area.
- Coming Up with the Permanent Restoration: When your custom crown or bridge is ready, your dentist removes the temporary restoration and places the permanent one. Your dentist will make sure it fits properly and that you are comfortable wearing it, and will adjust it as needed to ensure optimal functionality and aesthetics.
- Final Touches: Once the crown or bridge is positioned, your dentist will examine your bite to confirm that all parts align correctly. You’ll also receive care instructions for your new restoration.
What Makes Custom Dental Crowns and Bridges a Great Option?
Dental crowns and bridges are a great way to restore the function and appearance of your teeth. These are not only custom-made to perfectly fit your mouth but also a great remedy for damaged or missing teeth. If done correctly, they may enhance the way you bite down, speak, and keep your teeth healthy.
If you are wondering how long dental crowns last, then you are not alone. Crowns are built to last and can often last 10 to 15 years with proper care. How long they last varies based on the crown material, where in the mouth the crown is placed, and your oral habits.
The Benefits of Custom Crowns And Bridges
Let us discuss the various advantages of custom crowns and bridges beyond cosmetic enhancements. Dental implants improve tooth function, enhance the aesthetic of your smile, and provide a long-term solution for damaged or missing teeth. These restorations contribute to good dental health and an improved quality of life.
- Restored Appearance: Your smile can be restored to its natural state with custom crowns and bridges, a key benefit. New dental materials allow restorations to match the color and shape of your adjacent teeth, enabling a precise fit.
- Enhanced Function: Dental crowns and bridges restore the function of damaged or missing teeth, so you can eat, speak, and smile comfortably.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: If properly cared for, dental crowns and bridges can last for many years, providing a long-term solution to dental problems.
- Maintenance of Oral Health: Crowns and bridges can help prevent further tooth damage, restore your bite, and reduce unnecessary strain on your gums.
Caring for Your Custom Crowns and Bridges
Proper maintenance of custom dental restorations is crucial for their lifespan. Here are some tips on how to make sure your crowns and bridges last as long as possible:
- You should brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly to prevent plaque from building up around the restoration.
- Steer clear of chomping down on hard objects such as ice, pens, or hard candy that can damage your crown or bridge.
- Regular check-ups and cleanings with your dentist help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
If you clench or grind your teeth, your dentist is likely to recommend a nightguard to help protect your restorations from wear and tear.
When Should You Opt for Custom Crowns or Bridges?
Fortunately, custom crowns and bridges may be just what you need to restore your smile and oral function. Here are some signs you need a dental crown for your dental wellbeing:
- Damaged or Broken Teeth: A dental crown can replace a cracked or broken tooth, protecting it from further injury while also improving its appearance and function.
- Severe Tooth Decay: When a tooth is decayed beyond the scope of a simple filling, crowns provide a stronger, more permanent means of repair.
- Missing Teeth: They are designed to replace one or more missing teeth, fill gaps, and prevent other teeth from shifting.
- Difficulty Chewing or Speaking: Crowns and bridges are designed to keep the mouth functioning properly, whether it’s chewing or speaking, so if damaged or missing teeth make it too difficult for you to do these activities, crowns and bridges will successfully get your oral functioning back up and running.
If you’re facing any of the above, scheduling an appointment with your dentist can help determine the best treatment option.
Custom Crowns and Bridges: Restoring Your Smile
When teeth are missing, a custom crown or bridge can provide strong functional and aesthetic support to your smile so you can eat, speak, and feel confident. Dental restorations – Dental restoration solutions for damaged or missing teeth. Whether you have a cracked tooth or are missing teeth, dental restorations offer a permanent and natural-looking solution.
If you are interested in how dental crowns and bridges can improve your smile, contact Falcon Dental Group today and schedule an appointment. We believe that feeling good about your smile goes hand in hand with looking good. Our team is dedicated to helping you find both!
Questions People Ask About Dental Crowns & Bridges
How long do dental crowns and bridges last?
Dental crowns and bridges can last between 10 and 15 years with proper care, including good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Timely maintenance ensures their durability and helps preserve their appearance and functionality.
Can a dental crown be placed on a tooth with a root canal?
Yes, a dental crown is often placed on a tooth that has had a root canal to protect it from further damage and restore its strength and functionality, ensuring the tooth serves its purpose long-term.
Are custom crowns and bridges comfortable?
Yes, custom crowns and bridges are designed to fit your mouth perfectly, providing a comfortable and natural feel. With proper fitting, they allow you to eat, speak, and smile without discomfort.
Can dental crowns or bridges get stained?
Porcelain crowns and bridges are highly resistant to staining, but maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential to keep them looking natural. Regular brushing and flossing prevent plaque buildup, helping to preserve their appearance.
What happens if my dental crown or bridge becomes loose?
If your dental crown or bridge becomes loose, contact your dentist immediately for reattachment or replacement. Delaying the repair can lead to further dental issues or damage to the surrounding teeth.
Can dental crowns and bridges be repaired?
In some cases, dental crowns and bridges can be repaired if damaged. However, if the damage is significant, your dentist may recommend a full replacement to restore proper function and appearance.
