When it comes to restoring damaged or missing teeth, dental crowns and bridges are two of the most effective solutions available in modern dentistry. At Perfect A Smile in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, we frequently help patients understand these restorative options and determine which treatment best meets their unique needs.
Whether you’re dealing with a severely damaged tooth or gaps from missing teeth, crowns and bridges can restore both function and aesthetics to your smile. Let’s explore what these treatments involve, when they’re necessary, and how they can benefit your oral health.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that completely covers a damaged tooth above the gum line. Think of it as a protective helmet for your tooth – it encases the entire visible portion to restore strength, shape, and appearance.
Types of Dental Crowns
Modern dentistry offers several crown materials, each with distinct advantages:
- Porcelain crowns: Provide the most natural appearance and are ideal for front teeth
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal: Combine strength with aesthetics
- Zirconia Crowns: A ceramic with metal-like properties that’s extremely durable
- All-ceramic: Metal-free option that’s biocompatible and natural-looking
At Perfect A Smile, we utilize advanced CEREC technology to create same-day crowns, allowing you to receive your permanent restoration in a single visit rather than waiting weeks for a dental lab.
When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
Severe Tooth Decay
When a cavity becomes too large for a traditional filling, a crown may be necessary to restore the tooth’s integrity. Large fillings can weaken the remaining tooth structure, making it susceptible to fractures.
Cracked or Broken Teeth
Teeth that have suffered significant trauma or have developed large cracks need the comprehensive protection that only a crown can provide. Without treatment, these teeth may break further or become infected.
After Root Canal Treatment
Following a root canal, teeth become more brittle since the blood supply has been removed. A crown protects the treated tooth from fracturing and extends its lifespan significantly.
Cosmetic Enhancement
Severely discolored, misshapen, or poorly positioned teeth can be transformed with crowns, creating a more attractive and uniform smile.
Protecting Weak Teeth
Teeth weakened by large fillings, genetic factors, or excessive wear may benefit from crown placement to prevent further damage.
Understanding Dental Bridges
A dental bridge literally “bridges” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. This fixed restoration consists of crowns (called abutments) placed on the teeth adjacent to the gap, with artificial teeth (pontics) suspended between them.
Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional Fixed Bridges
The most common type involves crowning the teeth on either side of the gap and attaching the replacement tooth between them.
Maryland Bridges
A conservative option that uses metal or porcelain wings bonded to the back of adjacent teeth, requiring minimal tooth preparation.
Implant-Supported Bridges
When multiple adjacent teeth are missing, dental implants can support the bridge rather than relying on natural teeth.
When Are Bridges Necessary?
Replacing Missing Teeth
The primary indication for a bridge is to replace one or more missing teeth, restoring your ability to chew properly and speak clearly.
Preventing Tooth Movement
When a tooth is lost, adjacent teeth tend to drift into the empty space, potentially causing bite problems and making cleaning more difficult. A bridge maintains proper spacing.
Maintaining Facial Structure
Missing teeth can cause facial collapse over time. Bridges help preserve your natural facial contours and prevent premature aging.
Improving Confidence
Gaps in your smile can affect self-esteem. Bridges restore a complete, attractive smile that you’ll feel proud to show off.
The Treatment Process at Perfect A Smile
Crown Procedure
Our CEREC same-day crown technology revolutionizes the traditional crown process:
- Initial consultation and examination using digital x-rays and 3D scanning
- Tooth preparation to create space for the crown
- Digital impression taken with our advanced scanning technology
- Crown design and milling completed in our office
- Final placement and adjustment during the same visit
Bridge Procedure
The bridge process typically requires two appointments:
- Preparation visit: Adjacent teeth are prepared, impressions taken, and a temporary bridge placed
- Delivery appointment: The permanent bridge is fitted, adjusted, and cemented in place
Benefits of Crowns and Bridges
Crowns and bridges restore your ability to chew comfortably and speak clearly while blending seamlessly with your natural teeth. With proper care, these durable restorations can last 5-10 years or longer, and the better your oral hygiene, the longer they can last while helping preserve jawbone density by maintaining proper chewing forces.
Caring for Your Crowns and Bridges
Proper maintenance extends the life of your restorations:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily, using special floss threaders for bridges
- Avoid hard foods that could damage the restoration
- Maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings
- Consider a nightguard if you grind your teeth
Why Choose Perfect A Smile?
Our commitment to advanced technology, including 3D scanning and CEREC same-day crowns, ensures you receive the most comfortable and efficient treatment possible. We understand that dental work can be stressful, which is why we’ve created a relaxed, welcoming environment where you can feel at ease.
Ready to Restore Your Smile’s Function and Beauty?
At Perfect A Smile, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you receive personalized care that meets your unique needs and budget. Call us today at (440)-583-6395 to schedule your consultation and discover how crowns and bridges can transform your oral health.