The mouth is a vital component of human anatomy, so proper oral health care should be taken seriously. Dental crowns and bridges are two common procedures used by dentists to improve the overall health of a person’s teeth and gums. Dental crowns are used to protect, cap, or cover up a damaged tooth while dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth. Knowing more about these procedures can help you make an informed decision when it comes to your oral health.
Types of Crowns and Bridges
When it comes to dental crowns and bridges, there are several types from which to choose.
Crowns:
Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) – This type of crown is a combination of metal and porcelain that provides strength as well as an aesthetic look for the tooth. It is ideal for front teeth and molars.
All ceramic – This type of crown is made entirely from porcelain, which provides a more natural look than PFM. It is best used on the front teeth.
Zirconia – This type of crown is made from zirconium oxide, which is a durable and strong material. It is ideal for back teeth, as it can withstand more wear and tear than other types of crowns.
Bridges:
Traditional bridges – This type of bridge uses two crowns that are placed on either side of the gap to anchor a false tooth in place. It is ideal for replacing one or more missing teeth.
Cantilever bridges – This type of bridge is similar to the traditional bridge, but instead of using two crowns, it uses one. It is ideal for replacing a single missing tooth.
Maryland bonded bridges – This type of bridge utilizes metal frameworks that are bonded to existing teeth on either side of the gap to hold the false tooth in place.
Benefits of Crowns and Bridges
Dental crowns and bridges offer a variety of benefits, including:
Improved aesthetics – Both dental crowns and bridges help improve the overall look of your smile by covering up any chips, cracks, or gaps in your teeth.
Increased protection – Dental crowns are used to protect and reinforce damaged teeth, while dental bridges help fill in gaps that can cause other teeth to move out of place.
Enhanced function – Crowns and bridges help restore the natural function of your mouth by allowing you to chew food more easily and speak more clearly.
Conclusion
Dental crowns and bridges are two common procedures used by dentists to help improve the overall health of a person’s teeth and gums. Knowing more about these treatments can help you make an informed decision when it comes to your oral health care. From porcelain fused to metal crowns to traditional bridgework, there are several types from which to choose. Not only do these treatments offer aesthetic benefits, but also added protection and improved the function of your mouth as well.
Dental crowns are used to cover up or protect a damaged tooth, while dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth.
The different types of dental crowns include porcelain fused to metal, all ceramic, and zirconia. The different types of dental bridges include traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, and Maryland bonded bridges.
The benefits of dental crowns and bridges include improved aesthetics, increased protection, and enhanced function.
