When you’re considering restorative dentistry to help repair your teeth for a healthier, happier smile, one of the hardest parts can be busting the lingo. After all, there are dozens of dental terms and knowing the difference, as well as which one is right for you, can be difficult.
We believe a healthier smile should be accessible for everyone, so we’ve decided to prepare this guide comparing two of the most common forms of restorative dentistry – crowns and bridges. Continue reading to help you figure out which one is right for you.
What are dental crowns?
Dental crowns are common among patients suffering from external and internal tooth damage, usually from cavities. Dental crowns are caps that fit over your teeth and protect them from any further damage.
There are a wide variety of materials that dental crowns can be made of, with metals being the most common and porcelain being the most natural. You can also use a combination of materials, offering different benefits in terms of function and cost.
Your dentist will use a variety of factors to determine which crown material is best for you. This includes the appearance of your surrounding teeth, the location of your affected tooth, the state of your affected tooth, and the position of your gum.
What is the process for dental crowns?
Dental crown procedures are common, and most can be completed in one visit.
After you arrive for your scheduled appointment, your dentist will take digital pictures of your teeth and create the crown in the needed size. The creation of the crown itself can take a few hours, so prepare for a wait. However, depending on circumstances, you may be able to leave during the waiting time.
After the crown is made, your dentist will cement it to your affected tooth to seal it from any future damage. The entire process can take a few hours.
However, a multi-day procedure can take several weeks, so make sure to talk to your dentist about your options.
Who needs dental crowns?
Crowns are usually alternatives for fillings that your doctor will utilize if the damage is too severe or covers too large of an area. Following a root canal, your dentist may also suggest a temporary or permanent crown to help protect the tooth.
What are dental bridges?
A dental bridge is a restorative dentistry procedure that helps repair missing teeth. Often, dental bridges are used to repair spaces that implants alone cannot.
What is the process for dental bridges?
For dental bridges, your dentist will attach a pontic – an artificial tooth – either to an implant or to the surrounding teeth to help fill in a space left by missing teeth. Bridges can take multiple visits as there are several steps in the procedure, from preparing your teeth to choosing the right prosthetic to the procedure itself.
Who needs dental bridges?
Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth. As a result, if you’re missing one or more teeth, you may find a dental bridge beneficial.
Final Thoughts
Restorative dentistry is one of the best ways to restore not only your confidence in your smile but your help. Surface damage to your teeth is almost inevitable, and problems can quickly arise. However, dental crowns and dental bridges offer effective solutions to help restore your teeth to almost natural conditions while preventing future damage. If you’re interested in learning more or looking to book an appointment, you can contact our team of professionals here at Dentistry at Consilium at (416) 296-1080 or through our website. All COVID-19 precautions will be followed to ensure your safety as well as ours.
300 Consilium Place #103
Scarborough, ON M1H 3G2