Crowns and Bridges

No, we’re not talking about medieval times. When we say crowns and bridges we’re referring to the dental prosthetics. Now these are two different types of devices so we’ll break them down individually starting with crowns. 

 

What is  a crown?

 

A crown is a little cap that sits on top of a damaged tooth, kinda like a crown on top of someone’s head. This cap will full cover the top of the tooth and help strengthen the tooth. Crowns can also help with the alignment, shape and appearance of the tooth. 

 

Crown can come in different materials depending on your preference. Porcelain or ceramic crowns can be matched to your tooth’s natural colour, or you could opt for gold or metal alloys.  

 

Why might I need a crown?

 

There are many reasons your dentist may suggest the options of a crown such as: 

• Replace a large filling when there isn’t enough tooth left 

• Protect a weak filling

• Restore a fractured tooth 

• Attach a bridge 

• Cover a dental implant 

 

How long do crowns last?

 

Crowns can last a lifetime but there is always a chance they can become loose or fall out. A good way to help prolong their life is to practice good oral hygiene.

 

Now onto bridges. 

 

What is a bridge? 

 

If you are missing one or more teeth a bridge can help fill the gap, bridges use a replacement tooth that will be cemented to the natural teeth around it. Depending on the location of the missing tooth (or teeth) your dentist will recommend the best material to use. 

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 Why might I need a bridge?

 

Bridges are ideal for those who have 

• One or more missing teeth 

• Gapped teeth 

• Imbalanced bites or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

 

How long do bridges last?

 

Much like crowns bridges can last a lifetime as well, but it’s important to practice good oral hygiene. Since a bridge relies on the teeth and bone to hold it in place, if either are damaged by dental disease, the bridge could lose it support. It’s important to keep your gums and teeth healthy by brushing and flossing.

 

What are veneers?

 

Porcelain veneers are a thin shell that goes on the front of the tooth immediately concleaning any imperfections below. Veneers are a permedant procedure, each veneer will be bonded to the tooth using dental cement (which means there is a low risk of the veneers falling off). 

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Who should get veneers?

 

Veneers can quickly address a multitude of issues such as: 

• Chipped teeth 

• Cracked teeth 

• Discolouration or Staining 

• Misshapen teeth 

• Gapped Teeth or Spacing between Teeth

 

What is the process for getting veneers like?

Typically when someone wants to get veneers, it’s not a one-stop fix. The process for getting veneers is simple though, it all starts with a consultation with your dentist. 

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In this consultation you and your dentist will go over your oral history, concerns, goals and possibly begin preparation for veneers. Your dentist will remove a layer of enamel from your teeth, then take a mould of the tooth and place replacement veneers on your teeth. In your follow up appointment, your permanent veneer will be bonded to your teeth. And that’s it! You’re done and out the office door with a beautiful new smile. 

 

Is there anything I should know about veneers?

 

Yes, it’s always important to remember when you have cosmetic dentistry that the maintenance is just as important. Veneers are strong but not indestructible, it’s best to avoid biting hard things like ice or even your fingernails.