Missing teeth should usually be replaced to help regain your ability to chew, prevent other teeth from shifting, and restore your smile. Crowns and bridges are two ways to help with your dental restoration.
Crowns
A hollow false tooth that completely or partially surrounds an existing tooth. Crowns are a versatile way to improve and strengthen weakened or damaged teeth. They’re cemented onto a prepared existing tooth to provide structure and strength and improve the appearance of broken or worn teeth.
The full dental restoration using a crown involves an appointment to asses your personal situation. Then the original tooth is prepared and a dental impression is taken. A custom made tooth is created using strong restorative materials such as fire-treated porcelain, metal, or composite.
The final visit involves affixing the crown using dental cement. Crowns generally last for ten years or so but can last longer with proper care.
Bridges
A fixed bridge replaces one or more missing teeth. It is called a “bridge” because it covers a gap, and the bridge is supported by teeth or implants on one or both sides of that gap. One or more artificial teeth are fused between two crowns that are attached to healthy teeth or implants on either side.
These supporting teeth or implants are called abutments. In this procedure, each abutment is prepared to receive full crowns or caps. A custom made dental prosthesis is created for your unique situation.
When completed, the bridge is cemented into position over the support of the adjacent teeth. A well-maintained bridge should last for 10 or more years with proper care.