Dental crowns and bridges are a great way to restore natural teeth to their original shape and beauty. They are a type of dental prosthesis used to improve the aesthetics of the smile, prevent further damage to the underlying teeth, and restore the ability to chew, speak and smile with confidence. The procedure requires two visits to the dentist, and the aftercare is straightforward. If you’re looking for a way to restore your natural teeth, this treatment may be the best for you.
What are Dental Crowns and Bridges?
A dental crown or a “cap” is a restoration that covers the entire surface of a decayed or damaged tooth. A dental bridge is a restoration that replaces a missing tooth and transfers the pressure from one or two teeth on either side of the gap to the bridge itself. Crowns and bridges are two types of “fixed” or “permanent” dental restorations that are designed to last a lifetime.
Benefits of Dental Crowns and Bridges
Dental crowns and bridges are two types of restorative dentistry that are used to repair or replace damaged or missing teeth. They are an ideal solution for those who have suffered from tooth decay, gum disease, or trauma. Some benefits of dental crowns and bridges include:
Improvement in Appearance
Dental crowns and bridges can be used to cover a tooth that is discolored, misshapen, or has been damaged by decay. They can improve the appearance of a tooth in several ways:
- It can be made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, so it blends in with your smile. The dental lab technician will use the exact shade of the tooth to match the crown or bridge to the rest of the teeth, making it hard to tell the difference between the natural teeth and the restored tooth.
- A bridge can be used to replace one or more missing teeth, helping to restore the appearance of the patient’s smile. The artificial tooth in the bridge is custom-made to match the shape and color of the patient’s natural teeth.
- Crowns and bridges can also help to improve the overall alignment of the teeth and the bite, as they are designed to fit seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. This can result in a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
- They can also improve the function of a tooth, which can enhance the patient’s overall oral health and self-confidence.
Strengthening the Teeth
Dental crowns and bridges can be used to protect a tooth that has been weakened by decay or injury.
They can help strengthen a tooth in several ways:
- A dental crown can be used to cover a tooth that is weak, cracked or has had a large filling. The crown acts as a protective shell that encases the entire tooth and reinforces it, making it stronger and more resistant to further damage.
- Crowns can also be placed on top of dental implants, which are artificial roots that are placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth. This helps to keep the implant stable and secure, and can improve the overall strength and function of the tooth replacement.
- A bridge can also help to strengthen a tooth by providing support to the surrounding teeth. When one or more teeth are missing, the remaining teeth may shift out of alignment, which can cause stress on the teeth, gums and jaw. A bridge can help to keep the surrounding teeth in their proper position, reducing the strain on the supporting teeth
- Dental crowns and bridges can also improve the overall alignment of the teeth and the bite, which can help to distribute the forces of biting and chewing more evenly across the teeth, reducing the risk of damage or injury.
- Crowns and bridges can also prevent further damage to the teeth and gums by protecting them from the forces of biting and chewing.
Preventing Further Damage
Dental crowns and bridges are used for repairing or replacing damaged or missing teeth, and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
They are considered a long-term solution for several reasons:
- Durability: Crowns and bridges are made of durable materials such as porcelain, ceramic, gold or a combination of these materials, which are designed to withstand the forces of biting and chewing. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years.
- Custom-made: Dental crowns and bridges are custom-made to fit the patient’s teeth, ensuring a snug, comfortable fit. This means they are less likely to become loose or fall out over time.
- Preventing further damage: Dental crowns and bridges can help to prevent further damage to the teeth and gums by protecting them from the forces of biting and chewing. This can help to preserve the overall health of the patient’s smile.
- Improving oral health: Dental crowns and bridges can improve the function of a tooth, which can enhance the patient’s overall oral health. Replacing missing teeth can also help to keep the remaining teeth in proper alignment, reducing the risk of further damage or injury.
- Cost-effective: Dental crowns and bridges are a cost-effective solution for repairing or replacing damaged or missing teeth. They are considered a long-term investment that can save money in the long run by avoiding the need for more costly and invasive procedures in the future.
Overview of the Procedure
A dental crown, also known as a “cap,” is a covering that encases the entire visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line. A bridge, on the other hand, is a prosthetic device that replaces one or more missing teeth.
The procedure for a dental crown and bridges typically involves the following steps:
- The dentist will numb the area around the tooth to be treated.
- They will then shape and reduce the size of the tooth to make room for the crown.
- Impressions of the prepared tooth and the surrounding teeth are taken to create a model of the patient’s bite.
- A temporary crown or bridge is placed on the tooth to protect it while the permanent one is being made.
- The permanent crown or bridge is then cemented onto the prepared tooth once it has been returned from the dental lab.
In Summary, during the first visit to the dentist, a temporary crown is usually placed on the tooth to protect it while the final crown is being made. The process for a dental bridge is similar, but there are a few key differences. The dentist will remove one or more healthy teeth on either side of the gap and replace them with an artificial tooth (called an “abutment”). The artificial tooth is fixed to a false tooth that is designed to look and feel like natural teeth.
Price of Crown and Bridge in Florida
The cost of a dental crown or bridge in Florida can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of material used, the location of the dental practice, and the individual dentist’s fees.
According to the Florida Board of Dentistry, the average cost of a dental crown in the state is around $1,000 to $1,500. However, the cost can be higher or lower depending on the type of material used for the crown. For example, a porcelain crown may cost more than a metal crown.
The cost of a dental bridge in Florida can also vary, but it is generally more expensive than a single crown. The average cost of a dental bridge in Florida is around $1,500 to $5,000, again depending on the type of material used and the location of the dental practice.
It’s worth noting that these prices are estimates and may not necessarily reflect the actual cost of a crown or bridge in your specific area of Florida. It’s also worth noting that most dental insurance plans will cover some of the cost of a crown or bridge. Therefore, it’s essential to check with your insurance provider to see what your coverage includes before getting a procedure done.
To get a more accurate estimate of the cost of a crown or bridge in your area, it is best to contact local dental practices and ask for a consultation. They will be able to give you a more accurate estimate of the cost for the specific procedure you need and also if they take your insurance or not.
After Care and Maintenance
After a dental crown or bridge procedure, it is important to take proper care of the restored teeth to ensure they last as long as possible. Here are some general guidelines for after care and maintenance of dental crowns and bridges:
- Brush and floss your teeth as you normally would to maintain good oral hygiene. It is important to clean under and around the restoration, as well as the surrounding teeth to prevent decay or gum disease.
- Avoid biting or chewing hard foods, such as ice or hard candy, as they can damage the restoration or the surrounding teeth.
- Avoid grinding or clenching your teeth, as this can put excessive stress on the restoration and the supporting teeth.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. They will be able to detect and address any potential problems early on.
- If you have a bridge, make sure to floss the area under the pontic (the false tooth) daily to prevent plaque and food accumulation.
- If you notice any pain, sensitivity, or looseness in the restoration, contact your dentist immediately as this can be a sign of a problem.
- By following these guidelines and visiting your dentist regularly, you can help ensure that your dental crown or bridge lasts for many years.
Why Choose Parkwood Dental for Your Dental Crowns and Bridges
There are many reasons why you should choose us as your dental provider:
- Experienced and qualified staff: Park Dental is staffed by experienced and qualified dentists, hygienists, and other dental professionals who have the knowledge and skills to provide high-quality dental care.
- Comprehensive services: We offer a wide range of dental services, including preventative care, restorative care, and cosmetic dentistry. This allows patients to receive all of their dental needs in one place.
- State-of-the-art technology: Park Dental is equipped with the latest technology, such as digital x-rays and computer-aided design, to provide accurate diagnoses and treatment.
- Convenient location and hours: Our dental clinic is located in convenient locations with extended hours to make it easy for patients to schedule appointments.
- Patient-centered care: Park Dental’s focus is on the patient and the goal is to provide personalized, comfortable care. We take the time to listen to patients’ concerns, explain their treatment options, and answer any questions they may have.
- Affordable pricing: They offer affordable pricing options, various financing plans and accept most insurance plans to make treatment accessible to everyone.
Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more!