Crowns and bridges are fixed prosthetics. Unlike removable prosthetics such as dentures, which you have to take out and clean daily. Crowns and bridges are cemented onto existing teeth, and can only be removed by a dentist.
How Do Crowns Work?
Crowns can be used to strengthen a damaged tooth or used as a cosmetic procedure to improve appearance, shape or alignment. There are a variety of materials used for crowns which include porcelain , ceramic, gold and metal. The dentist would recommend the best option for you.
How Do Bridges Work?
Bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They fill the space where the teeth are missing. Bridges are cemented to the natural teeth or implants surrounding the empty space. These teeth either side serve as anchors for the bridge. A replacement tooth is incorporated into the bridge to fill into the space of the missing tooth. As with crowns, you have a choice of materials for bridges. The dentist will recommend the best material based on the location of the missing tooth (or teeth), its function, cosmetic and cost.
How Are Crowns and Bridges Made?
Before either a crown/bridge can be made, the tooth (or teeth) is reduced in size so that the crown/bridge will fit over it. After reducing the tooth/teeth, an impression is then taken to have an exact mould for the crown or bridge. Using this impression, a dental lab then makes the crown/bridge. A temporary crown or bridge will be put in place to cover the prepared tooth while the permanent crown or bridge is being made. There is usually a 2 week wait from the first stage to the finish stage. When the permanent crown or bridge is ready, the temporary crown or bridge is removed, and the new crown or bridge is cemented over your prepared tooth or teeth.
How much do they cost?
Treatment fees are determined by your dentist after assessment.