The Complete Guide to Tooth Restoration
When teeth are damaged or missing, it can affect not only your appearance but also your ability to chew and speak effectively. At Lucas Dental in the South Plympton area we offer crown and bridge treatments and other restorative dentistry treatments. These are reliable solutions for restoring the function and appearance of your teeth. Crowns and bridges can be complicated so one of our friendly staff members has put together this guide to help you learn everything you need to know about dental crowns and tooth bridges, including when you might need them and the benefits they offer.
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What Is A Dental Crown and Bridge?
Dental Crown
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged or cracked tooth to restore its strength, shape, and appearance. At Lucas Dental we often use crowns to protect teeth that have undergone root canal treatment, to cover large fillings or improve the appearance of discoloured or damaged teeth. We have several different kinds of crowns and bridges available.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Zirconia (PFZ): Offers a natural look and is durable for both front and back teeth. At Lucas Dental this is our preferred method.
- Base Metal Alloys: Resistant to corrosion and provides a strong, less bulky option if there is limited space in your mouth or if your teeth are crowded.
- Gold Alloys: Known for strength and biocompatibility, gold works for back teeth where metal visibility is less of a concern.
Each style has its unique benefits, and one of our friendly staff members will recommend the best option based on your specific needs.
Dental Bridge
At Lucas Dental we use dental bridges to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth, known as pontics, to the surrounding healthy teeth or dental implants. There are various types of tooth bridges, including:
- Traditional Bridge: Involves creating a crown for your teeth on either side of the gap, with a pontic in between.
- Cantilever Bridge: Used when only one surrounding tooth is available to support the bridge.
- Maryland Bridge: Uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth, ideal for front teeth.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: Supported by dental implants rather than natural teeth.
Choosing the right type of bridge depends on the location of the missing teeth, the health of surrounding teeth, and your overall health. Book an appointment with one of our friendly staff members and we can build a crown and bridge treatment that suits your needs.
When Do You Need a Crown or a Bridge?
Dental Crown for Tooth Restoration
Sometimes a dental crown is needed, usually in these circumstances.
- After root canal treatment: To protect and strengthen the treated tooth
- For large fillings: When there isn’t enough tooth structure left to support a filling
- To protect weakened teeth: Teeth that are cracked or weakened by decay benefit from the added strength of a crown
Crowns not only restore the tooth’s function but also help prevent further damage.
Dental Bridge to Replace Missing Teeth
At Lucas Dental in the City of Marion area we recommend dental bridges for patients with one or more missing teeth. Replacing missing teeth is crucial for several reasons:
- Restoring smile and confidence: Filling gaps left by missing teeth improves the appearance of your smile
- Maintaining bite alignment: Prevents remaining teeth from shifting out of position, which can cause bite problems
- Preserving facial structure: Missing teeth can lead to bone loss which will affect the shape of your face over time
A dental bridge is a long-term solution that restores both function and aesthetics.
The Procedure for Crown or Bridge
Preparing the Tooth or Teeth
The first step in the crown and bridge treatment process is preparing the teeth for restorative dentistry. For a dental crown, this involves our team reshaping the tooth so the crown can fit securely. In the case of a dental bridge, the surrounding teeth must be prepared to serve as anchors for the bridge. This preparation ensures a stable and comfortable fit for the final restoration.
Taking Impressions and Placing Temporary Crown/Bridge
After the teeth are prepared, one of our friendly staff members will take impressions of your teeth to create a custom-fit crown or bridge. While the permanent restoration is being made, a temporary crown or bridge may be placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain the appearance of your smile.
Fitting and Bonding the Crown or Bridge
Once your custom crown or bridge are ready, they will be carefully fitted and bonded in place. We will make sure that the restoration is comfortable and functional, making any necessary adjustments to achieve the best fit. This step restores the tooth’s functionality and enhances the overall appearance of your smile. If you’re in the Glenelg, Kurralta Park or Marion area, book into Lucas Dental in the South Plympton area today.
Benefits of Crown and Bridge Treatment
Restoring Functionality
A dental crown procedure is an effective way of restoring your ability to chew and speak properly. By filling gaps and strengthening weakened teeth, they provide a stable solution that allows you to enjoy your favourite foods and communicate without discomfort.
Enhancing Aesthetics
In addition to restoring function, dental crowns and tooth bridges greatly enhance the aesthetics of your smile. They are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, offering a natural-looking solution that improves the appearance of your teeth and smile.
Long-Lasting and Durable Solutions
With proper care, crown and bridge restorations can last for many years. They are made from durable materials that can handle the force of chewing and speaking, making them a long-term investment in your dental health. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are essential for maintaining their longevity. with Lucas Dental to maintain your crowns and bridges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental crowns and bridges last?
Is the crown and bridge procedure painful?
How do I maintain my crown and bridge?
Restore Your Smile
Don’t let damaged or missing teeth affect your quality of life. Book an appointment today at Lucas Dental in the South Plympton area to discuss your crown and bridge options and take the first step towards restoring your smile.