
Jul
Both dental bridge and dental crown procedures restore the look and function of teeth. In cases of decay, large fillings may not suffice. A crown may be the treatment of choice. In other cases, the preparation and surgery involved with dental implants may be a less-than-desirable option to replace a missing tooth or teeth. A bridge may be a more attractive solution.
Whatever the case, a dental bridge isn’t complete without at least two crowns. To understand why this is so, consider the basic features associated with a crown:
Additional steps may be necessary, such as a root canal treatment to remove infected or damaged pulp in the center of the tooth. Crowns may also cap a dental implant or titanium tooth root.
Yet another purpose for a crown is to complete a dental bridge. This type of restoration includes the following features:
As with crowns, your bridgework may be made from metals, ceramic, or the porcelain-fused-to-metal option. The material of choice depends on the location and function of the tooth or teeth to be restored or replaced.
Metals may be a good option for an out-of-sight back tooth. The color isn’t an issue with teeth that can’t be seen. The metal provides strength for a tooth that sustains significant pressure from chewing. For a front tooth, however, all ceramic may be preferred, as it looks natural. These teeth also don’t demand the strength that comes with metals, as they are not subject to the same amount of force from eating as the back teeth.
Depending on your specific situation, more abutments may be needed. For instance, if you are missing three teeth, to support the artificial teeth you may need four abutments. Accordingly, crowns may be placed on each of these four abutting teeth.
Call (248) 243-6044 to schedule an appointment to discuss more about dental bridges and crowns near Shelby Township. Located in Rochester Hills, John L. Aurelia, DDS, PLLC is less than 10 miles due West.