The field of dentistry has been working diligently to find better ways and solutions to damaged and missing teeth. Some of these restorative treatments include dental crowns and bridges, two of the most popular solution to teeth problems. Both of these are effective in restoring the natural smile of their wearer. View more are www.southportparkdental.com.au and see how these two differ from each other.
What Is A Dental Crown
Dental crowns are the cap used to cover damaged teeth. Generally, this is the solution recommended by dentists if the patient has one broken tooth only. It is made of several materials like porcelain, metal, or ceramic that can be color-adjusted to match the color of natural teeth.
Before getting dental crowns, it’s important to consider factors like cost, strength, and durability. Not everyone can be a candidate for a dental crown so be sure to discuss this matter with your dentist. They will always know the best options for their patients.
Different Materials Of Dental Crowns
Depending on your preference and your dentist’s recommendation, you may opt to choose the kind of material to be used for your dental crown:
- zirconia
- porcelain
- metal
- ceramic
- tooth-colored composite resin
- mixture of materials
While all of these materials come with different advantages, each of them has its own drawbacks as well.
Choosing The Material
Technically, the final say as to which material should be used for your dental crowns will depend on you. But your dentist will consider the following factors to provide a better suggestion:
- location
- the visibility of the tooth when you open your mouth or smile
- gum tissue position
- functions of the tooth in need of a dental crown
- how much tooth remains
- color of teeth
Kinds Of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns come in different varieties as well. Listed below are the types of crowns and their specific purposes:
Temporary crowns
This a kind of dental crown that is supposed to remain in the mouth for a short period of time only. It is typically placed on top of a crown with a not-so-strong adhesive so it can be taken out easily in due time. Oftentimes, temporary crowns are placed while the permanent crown is still in the making. Once the permanent crown is ready, the temporary dental crown will be removed and replaced respectively.
One-day crowns
With the help of advanced technology and comprehensive dental techniques, some clinics can now place crowns on the very first day of the appointment. The dental crown will be designed and created right then and there so you can wear them before you go home.
Onlay
Onlays are also known as 3/4 crowns. This is basically advised to patients who do not need a full crown and just require a partial crown to cover small damage.
When Do You Need Dental Crowns
Patients who get dental crowns often have the following conditions:
- extra large cavity
- worn down tooth
- cracked, damaged, or chipped tooth
In some cases, crowns are suggested in order to protect the tooth from sensitivity following a root canal procedure.
If the patient is in need of a dental bridge, crowns are also needed on rare occasions.
All About Bridges
A dental bridge is a primary solution to missing teeth. This is what dentists use to close the gap between healthy teeth and prevent them from misaligning. Bridges can be made of different materials as well although porcelain is the most commonly used. Listed below are the materials to choose from:
- metal alloys
- gold
- acrylic
- porcelain
- ceramic
The cost for each material varies and their advantages differ as well. To make sure that you get your money’s worth, it would be best to consult your dentist about this matter.
Types Of Bridges
In accordance with the state of your teeth and oral health, your dentist will lay out a dental bridge that will benefit you in great ways. Here are the different types of bridges that dentists use nowadays:
Traditional Bridges
This is a common solution to teeth gap with natural teeth on both sides. The traditional dental bridge is composed of fake teeth which are supported by dental crowns.
Cantilever Bridges
In this type of bridge, the patient does not need natural teeth from both sides, just in one. This is also supported by a dental crown which is attached to one abutment tooth only.
Maryland Bridges
Maryland bridge also requires two natural teeth from both sides of the gap. It may sound the same as traditional bridges but this requires a framework made of metal or porcelain at the back of the abutment teeth.
Implant-supported
This is probably one of the most durable and long-lasting solutions to missing teeth. This particular type of bridge uses dental implants for sturdy support. While implant-supported bridges can become quite invasive due to surgeries, dentists are very much confident that the outcome of this solution will meet beyond your expectations.
Who Needs Dental Bridges
Missing teeth is one of the primary reasons why you would need a dental bridge, but for some events, the following reasons may also qualify an individual to get one:
- to restore their natural smile
- to regain the ability to chew and bite
- restoring an individuals ability to speak clearly
- maintaining the appearance of the face
- re-adjust a person’s bite
- to prevent teeth from moving and misaligning
Taking care of our teeth must on top of our priorities. Aside from the fact that they help us in our everyday lives, a healthy mouth also indicates that a person is healthy in general.
