Crowns and bridges
In the field of dentistry, crowns and bridges play a crucial role in restoring damaged or missing teeth, enhancing both the aesthetic appearance and functional abilities of patients. Dental Quest believes dental restorations have been widely used for many years and continue to be a popular choice for individuals seeking to improve their oral health.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown, often referred to as a dental cap, is a custom-made tooth-shaped covering that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth. Crowns serve a variety of purposes, including strengthening weak teeth, restoring tooth structure after root canal treatment, protecting fractured teeth, and improving the appearance of severely discoloured or misshapen teeth. Crowns are typically made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these. Porcelain and ceramic crowns offer a natural tooth-like appearance, blending seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. Metal alloy crowns are exceptionally durable and can withstand the forces of chewing and biting. Dentists consider various factors, including location, function, and patient preference, when selecting the most suitable crown material.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are restorations used to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of artificial teeth (pontics) that are anchored in place by dental crowns attached to the teeth adjacent to the gap. Bridges offer an effective solution for restoring the functionality of the bite, preventing the remaining natural teeth from shifting, and improving the patient's smile. Similar to crowns, bridges can be fabricated from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination. Advances in dental technology have allowed for the creation of bridges that closely resemble natural teeth, ensuring seamless integration with the patient's existing dentition.
Procedure
The process of getting crowns and bridges typically requires two or more dental visits. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth or teeth that will receive the restoration by removing a small portion of the enamel to create space for the crown or bridge. An impression is then taken and sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians fabricate the custom restoration to ensure a precise fit. While waiting for the permanent crown or bridge, the patient is provided with a temporary restoration to protect the prepared teeth. Once the final restoration is ready, the dentist checks its fit, colour, and shape before permanently cementing it in place. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, crowns and bridges can provide long-lasting, functional, and aesthetically pleasing results.
Benefits of Crowns and Bridges
- Restoration of Function: Crowns and bridges enable patients to regain the ability to bite, chew, and speak properly, thus enhancing overall oral function and improving quality of life.
- Aesthetic Enhancement: These dental restorations can transform the appearance of damaged, discoloured, or misaligned teeth, resulting in a more attractive smile and increased self-confidence.
- Durability: Crowns and bridges are designed to be durable and long-lasting. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, they can provide reliable results for many years.
- Preservation of Oral Health: By replacing missing teeth and preventing the shifting of adjacent teeth, crowns and bridges help maintain the overall health and alignment of the dentition.
Crowns and bridges have become indispensable tools in modern dentistry, offering a range of benefits for patients with damaged or missing teeth. These restorations provide both functional and aesthetic improvements, allowing individuals to regain their oral health and confidence
