Mesa, AZ Crown & Bridge Dentist
Dental crowns sometimes called “caps,” are tooth-shaped coverings that are placed over a tooth to restore its shape and size, strength, and appearance. If a tooth is completely broken or severely damaged, a dental crown may be recommended to restore it back to normal.
On the other hand, a dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace a missing tooth. Dental bridges consist of a false tooth, known as a pontic, that’s joined to two dental crowns. The dental crowns are fitted over the adjacent teeth and hold the dental bridge in place.
The Dental Crown and Bridge Procedure
Initial Consultation: During the first visit, the dentist in Mesa, AZ, evaluates the patient’s oral health and discusses treatment options.
Tooth Preparation: For crowns, the tooth is reshaped and prepared to accommodate the crown. Impressions of the tooth are then taken to create a custom crown.
Crown Fabrication: The crown is fabricated in a dental laboratory based on the impressions, ensuring a precise fit and natural appearance.
Bridge Preparation: For bridges, the adjacent teeth or dental implants are prepared to receive the crowns that will support the bridge.
Bridge Fabrication: The bridge and pontics are fabricated in a dental laboratory and customized to match the color, shape, and size of the natural teeth.
Placement: Once the crowns and bridge are ready, they are permanently cemented onto the prepared teeth or implants, completing the restoration.
Types of Dental Crowns and Bridges
Dental Crowns
Porcelain Crowns: Porcelain crowns offer the most natural appearance, closely resembling the color and translucency of natural teeth. They are highly durable and resistant to staining.
Metal Crowns: Metal crowns, such as those made of gold or silver amalgam, are incredibly strong and long-lasting. They are often used for molars and teeth that require extra reinforcement.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. They provide excellent durability and natural-looking results.
Dental Bridges
Traditional Bridges: Traditional bridges consist of one or more pontics held in place by dental crowns attached to adjacent natural teeth.
Cantilever Bridges: Cantilever bridges are used when only one adjacent tooth is available for support, making them suitable for certain situations.
Implant-Supported Bridges: Implant-supported bridges are anchored to dental implants surgically placed into the jawbone, providing a secure and stable foundation for replacement teeth.
Each type of crown and bridge offers unique advantages based on individual needs and preferences. Consulting with our best dentist in Mesa can help determine the best option for restoring your smile’s functionality and beauty.
Care and Maintenance for Crowns and Bridges
Taking care of your crowns and bridges is essential to ensure their longevity and maintain your oral health. Regular brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste helps prevent plaque buildup around the restoration. Flossing daily is also crucial to remove food particles stuck between teeth, preventing decay.
Avoid chewing hard foods or using your teeth as tools to prevent damage to your crowns and bridges. Additionally, wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth can help protect them while you sleep. It’s important to visit our dentist in Mesa, AZ, for regular check-ups so they can monitor the condition of your dental work and address any issues promptly.
Maintaining good oral hygiene habits at home, combined with professional dental cleanings, will help keep your crowns and bridges looking great and functioning properly for years to come. Remember, proper care leads to a healthy smile!
Which Is a Better Option?
Both crowns and bridges offer significant benefits. They can both restore your smile’s function and appearance as well as protect your oral health. However, some factors may come into play when you’re choosing between the two.
Both crowns and bridges are custom-made to fit your mouth. A bridge is anchored in place by crowns placed over adjacent teeth.
A crown completely covers your tooth above the gum line. It can cover teeth that are misshapen or severely discolored. A crown can also improve your ability to chew and speak, as well as your appearance.
A crown or bridge may be right for you if you have:
- A weakened tooth
- A cracked tooth
- A tooth with decayed portions
- A missing tooth
- A tooth that has a large filling
- A tooth that has a broken cusp
- A tooth that has had root canal therapy
What Are the Benefits of Crowns and Bridges?
- Both crowns and bridges are fixed prosthetics that are cemented in place, making them durable and long-lasting.
- A dental crown or bridge can remedy uneven or poor chewing function caused by tooth decay, gum disease, or injury.
- A crown or bridge acts just like a natural tooth, which can help you chew and speak normally.
- They can improve your oral health.
- Without a crown or bridge, your teeth on either side of the gap can start to drift out of position. This can lead to a misaligned bite, jaw problems, and problems with your surrounding teeth. A crown or bridge prevents this from happening because it holds your other teeth in place.
Arizona Dental Heights, situated in Mesa, AZ, is equipped with modern technologies and expert dentists who provide the best services to patients. Call (480) 525-6000 and schedule an appointment with the dentist in Mesa, AZ, to learn more about the dental services we offer.