Crowns and Bridges
What are Dental Crowns & Bridges?
A dental crown, often called a “cap,” is a custom-made restoration that covers the entire visible part of a damaged tooth. It’s a great way to protect a weak tooth from breaking, hold parts of a cracked tooth together, or cover a tooth that has had a root canal. Crowns are designed to restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance.
A dental bridge is a permanent solution used to “bridge” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It’s made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth (or teeth) in between. The supporting teeth are called abutment teeth, and the false tooth is called a pontic. This device is cemented in place and helps restore your smile and bite.
Types of Dental Crowns
Porcelain & Ceramic Crowns
They are a great choice for front teeth as they can be matched to the color of your surrounding teeth.
Zirconia Crowns
Known for their exceptional strength and durability, zirconia crowns are an excellent option for back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
These crowns combine the strength of a metal base with the natural look of a porcelain outer layer.
Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional Bridges
This is the most common type of bridge, used when there are natural teeth on both sides of the gap.
Cantilever Bridges
This type of bridge is used when there are natural teeth on only one side of the gap.
Maryland Bridges
Also known as a resin-bonded bridge, this is a more conservative option.
Who Needs Crowns & Bridges?
- A tooth with a large filling and not enough natural tooth structure left.
- A weak tooth at risk of fracturing.
- A cracked or broken tooth.
- A tooth that has undergone a root canal.
- Discolored or misshapen teeth that you want to improve aesthetically.
- One or more missing teeth.
- A need to anchor a dental bridge.
