CROWN AND BRIDGE
Dental Crown and Bridges Procedure
Dental crowns and bridges are common dental treatments used to fix and replace teeth.
Dental Crown (Cap): This is a cover that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. It helps to protect the tooth, especially after a root canal or when a tooth is broken. Crowns can be made from different materials and are custom-made to fit over the tooth.
Dental Bridge: If you're missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge can be used. It includes artificial teeth that are supported by crowns on adjacent teeth. Bridges help to restore the function and appearance of your smile.
Both crowns and bridges are customized to fit your mouth and are designed to improve both the look and function of your teeth. The process involves preparation, creating impressions, and fitting the custom-made prosthetics to your teeth. Consulting with a dentist can help determine which option is best for your specific dental needs.
Dental Crown Procedure:
Consultation and Examination:
A consultation with your dentist will determine whether a dental crown is necessary. X-rays might be taken to assess the extent of damage or decay.
Impression Taking:
An impression of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth is made. This impression serves as a mold for the dental laboratory to create the custom crown.
Tooth Preparation
During the first visit, the affected tooth is prepared by removing a layer of enamel to make space for the crown. This step ensures a proper fit for the new crown
Temporary Crown Placement:
While waiting for the permanent crown to be fabricated, a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth.
Dental Crown Procedure:
Consultation and Examination:
Similar to the crown procedure, a consultation and examination are conducted to assess the need for a dental bridge.
Tooth Preparation
During the first visit, the affected tooth is prepared by removing a layer of enamel to make space for the crown. This step ensures a proper fit for the new crown.
Crown Fabrication
Impressions of the prepared teeth and the gap caused by missing teeth are taken. These impressions will be used as models for creating the bridge and pontics.
Temporary Bridge Placement:
While the permanent bridge is being fabricated, a temporary bridge might be placed to protect the exposed teeth and gums
Bridge Fabrication:
Skilled technicians at a dental laboratory create the bridge and pontics based on the impressions taken. The bridge can be made from materials similar to those used for crowns
Dental Crowns and Bridges: Enhancing Oral Health and Aesthetics
- 1. Restoration and Protection: Crowns: Restore and strengthen damaged or weakened teeth, providing protection against further decay or damage. They cover and support compromised teeth, preserving their function and structural integrity.
- 2. Improved Aesthetics: Crowns: Enhance the appearance of teeth by covering imperfections like discoloration, misshapen teeth, or extensive damage, resulting in a more natural and pleasing smile.
- 3. Functional Enhancement: Crowns: Restore the functionality of a damaged tooth, allowing for proper chewing, biting, and speaking. They act as a shield, protecting and supporting teeth with extensive restorations.
- 4. Longevity and Durability: Both crowns and bridges, when properly maintained, can offer long-lasting solutions for dental restoration.
- 5. Customization and Versatility: These treatments can be tailored to match the size, shape, and color of the patient's natural teeth. Different materials are available, offering flexibility to address individual dental needs for front or back teeth.
Dental Crown and Bridges
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After care following dental crown and bridges treatment
After receiving dental crown and bridge treatments, proper aftercare is crucial to maintain the longevity and effectiveness of the restorations. Here are the aftercare guidelines:
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Floss daily to keep the area around the crown and bridge clean.Advise your child not to chew on hard or sticky foods on the treated tooth for at least 24 hours.Maintain regular oral hygiene by brushing and flossing gently, being careful around the treated area.
Avoid using excessive force when brushing or flossing around the crowns and bridges to prevent damage. Treat them like your natural teeth.Encourage your child to bite on gauze placed over the extraction site to control bleeding, and change it as instructed.Advise your child to avoid hard, chewy, or hot foods and not to rinse their mouth forcefully for the first 24 hours.
Refrain from eating extremely sticky or hard foods that could dislodge or damage the crowns or bridges. Be cautious with very hard objects that could potentially harm the dental work.Remind your child to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could damage the orthodontic appliances.Ensure that your child attends follow-up appointments and adheres to the orthodontist’s recommendations.
Mild sensitivity may occur, especially initially. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort, but contact your dentist if the sensitivity persists or if you experience any unexpected pain.Ensure your child does not rinse, eat, or drink for a few hours following a dental treatment that requires a setting or bonding period.
Be mindful of what you eat and avoid highly pigmented foods and drinks that might stain the crowns or bridges, especially in the first few days after treatment.Administer pain medication as prescribed and provide a soft diet if recommended.
Your oral health is interconnected with your overall health. Maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and consider quitting smoking, as it can impact the longevity of dental restorations
Avoid habits like nail-biting, chewing on ice, or using your teeth as tools. These behaviors can potentially damage the crowns or bridges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore our comprehensive FAQ section on Dental Crowns and Bridges. Discover answers to your queries on materials used, durability, maintenance, eating habits, and more. Get insights into aftercare, aesthetics, and what to do in case of any issues. Your ultimate guide to understanding these dental solutions awaits!
Dental crowns are caps placed over a damaged or decayed tooth, while bridges fill gaps caused by missing teeth. Crowns provide protection and restoration, while bridges replace missing teeth.
With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns and bridges can last for many years. Their longevity depends on materials used, oral hygiene, and regular dental check-ups.
Local anesthesia is typically used during the procedure, ensuring minimal discomfort. After placement, some sensitivity might occur but can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Crowns and bridges can be made from various materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these, chosen based on individual needs and aesthetic preferences.
Yes, after an adjustment period, you can eat most foods normally. However, it's recommended to avoid extremely hard or sticky foods that might damage the restorations.
