Dental crowns and bridges are prosthetic devices used to restore damaged teeth or replace missing teeth. Dental crowns fully encase a tooth, while dental bridges are used to replace a missing tooth. Dental crowns and bridges are custom-crafted in a dental laboratory with your specific needs and anatomy in mind.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers the entire visible portion of your tooth. When cemented in place, it fully encases the tooth above the gum line to strengthen and protect it.
While there are several reasons a dental crown may be recommended, the most common include the following:
- Strengthening a tooth that has a large filling or has undergone root canal treatment
- Restoring a tooth that has a large, broken, or severely decayed filling
- Covering misshapen or severely discolored teeth
- Protecting a tooth after a root canal procedure
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a permanent dental restoration that replaces a missing tooth. It consists of an artificial tooth anchored in place by dental crowns on either side of the space. The crowns fit over the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. The crowns hold the artificial tooth in place, restoring the appearance of the smile.
Dental bridges can completely restore your smile by replacing one or more teeth in a row. They can also prevent other complications, as missing teeth can cause your remaining teeth to shift out of alignment and affect your bite. A dental bridge can restore your bite and prevent your remaining teeth from shifting.
What Are the Aftercare Tips for Dental Crowns and Bridges?
Once your crown or bridge is placed, it is important to take care of it properly. Poorly fit crowns and bridges can lead to tooth decay or gum disease. It's extremely important to continue to brush and floss your teeth as you normally would and to regularly visit our dentist for checkups and cleanings.
Avoid chewing on ice, raw foods, or hard candies, as they can loosen your crown or bridge or damage them.
At Wade K. Marler, D.D.S, we offer the best dental care possible to each of our patients in a positive and relaxing environment. If you're ready to experience the best dental care, please contact us at (253) 852-0480 or visit us at 17203 SE 270th Pl, Covington, WA 98042.