Taking care of our teeth is essential to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent dental problems. However, despite our best efforts, sometimes we may require dental restorations.
Crowns, bridges and dentures are three common types of dental restorations used to improve the appearance and functionality of teeth. This guide provides a comprehensive guide to help you understand what each restoration entails, its benefits and drawbacks, and which is most suited to your needs.
What are Crowns?
Crowns are tooth-shaped caps that cover damaged or decayed teeth to improve their strength and appearance.
Crowns are usually custom-made from porcelain, ceramic, gold, zirconia, stainless steel or E-Max. They are used for various reasons, including protecting weakened teeth, restoring broken or chipped teeth, improving the appearance of discoloured or misshapen teeth, and supporting teeth with large fillings or root canals. Dentists take an impression of the tooth and send it to a dental laboratory where the crown is made to fit over the tooth.
Crowns provide excellent protection and support for weakened teeth, improve the appearance of teeth and last for a long time. However, they can be expensive, require extensive tooth preparation, and may not be suitable for all patients.
Patients should consult their dentist to determine the best option for their needs.
Different Types of Crowns
Several types of crowns are available in the market, each with unique features and benefits.
Porcelain and ceramic crowns offer excellent aesthetics and can be colour-matched to the surrounding teeth, while gold crowns are highly durable and long-lasting. Zirconia crowns are known for their strength and biocompatibility, while stainless steel crowns are often used for children’s teeth or temporary restorations. E-Max crowns, made from lithium disilicate, are popular for their strength and clarity.
When deciding on a crown, patients should consider factors such as durability, aesthetics, cost, and how much natural tooth structure needs to be removed. The cost of a crown can vary depending on several factors, including the type of crown used and the location of the dental practice.
Patients are encouraged to discuss their options with their dentist to determine their best choice.
What are Bridges?
A dental bridge is a common therapeutic dental treatment that replaces one or more missing teeth.
A bridge consists of an artificial tooth, called a pontic, connected to two dental crowns on either side of the gap. Bridges are usually made from porcelain or ceramic; the dentist will prepare the adjacent teeth for the bridge and make an impression. The impression is sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge is custom-made.
Bridges provide a long-lasting solution for missing teeth, improve dental function and appearance, prevent teeth shifting, replace missing teeth, improve speech and chewing ability, and prevent dental problems caused by shifting teeth. However, bridges may cause discomfort, require adjacent healthy teeth to be prepared, and may need to be replaced over time.
Patients should discuss their options with their dentist to determine if a bridge is best for them.
Different Types of Bridges
Several types of dental bridges are available, each with advantages and disadvantages.
Traditional bridges have a pontic tooth connected to two dental crowns on either side. Cantilever bridges are used when only one tooth supports the bridge. Maryland bridges attach a metal or porcelain framework to the adjacent teeth without dental crowns. Implant-supported bridges use dental implants to anchor the bridge in place.
When considering a bridge, patients should consider factors such as durability, aesthetics, cost, and how many teeth need to be replaced. The cost of a bridge can vary depending on factors such as the type of bridge used and the location of the dental practice.
To maintain the longevity of a bridge, patients should practise good oral hygiene, schedule regular dental check-ups, and avoid hard and sticky foods.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues.
Dentures are usually made from acrylic or porcelain materials and are custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth. Different types of dentures are available, including complete dentures, partial dentures, and immediate dentures. Complete dentures are used when all teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Immediate dentures are placed immediately after tooth extraction.
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Pros of dentures include providing a quick solution for missing teeth, improving dental function and appearance, and being relatively affordable.
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Cons include discomfort, frequent adjustments, and potential speech and chewing issues.
Patients should consult their dentist to determine if dentures are the best option. They improve the smile’s appearance, help with chewing ability, and prevent dental problems caused by missing teeth.
Different Types of Dentures
Dentures are one of the most common dental restorations used to replace missing teeth. There are three main types of dentures: conventional, overdentures, and implant-supported.
Conventional dentures are removable and are typically made of acrylic resin. These dentures sit on top of the gums and are held in place with adhesive. Overdentures, however, are designed to fit over a few remaining natural teeth. This type of denture provides stability and support. Implant-supported dentures are secured to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. They are the most stable and secure dentures available and the most expensive.
When choosing dentures, it’s essential to consider factors such as cost, maintenance, and fit. Conventional dentures are the most affordable but may require frequent adjustments. Overdentures provide additional support and are more stable than conventional dentures. Implant-supported dentures are expensive but require minimal maintenance. It’s important to consult a dentist to determine which type of denture best suits your specific needs.
Proper maintenance, regular check-ups, and avoiding certain foods and beverages can help prolong the life of your dentures.
Comparison between Crowns, Bridges and Dentures
Crowns, bridges and dentures are all dental restorations used to replace or restore teeth. The main difference between these restorations is their purpose and function.
Crowns are typically used to restore a single damaged or decayed tooth, while bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. Dentures, on the other hand, are removable appliances used to replace multiple missing teeth.
When choosing between crowns, bridges and dentures, it’s essential to consider factors such as the type and location of the dental problem, cost, longevity, and potential risks and complications. Crowns are best suited for teeth that have suffered significant damage but still have healthy roots. Bridges are ideal for replacing missing teeth in areas with remaining healthy teeth. Dentures are typically used when multiple teeth are missing and can be conventional, overdentures, or implant-supported.
It’s also important to consider the long-term effects of each restoration. With proper care, crowns and bridges can last for many years, while dentures may need to be replaced every few years. The patient’s age, oral health, and lifestyle should also be considered when deciding on the best restoration.
Consulting with a dentist can help determine which restoration suits your specific needs.
How to care for your dental restorations
Proper care and maintenance of dental restorations are essential for their longevity and to prevent oral health problems. The following tips can help you take care of your dental restorations:
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Proper Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice a day and flossing daily can help prevent decay and gum disease, which can damage dental restorations.
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Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular dental check-ups can help detect potential problems early on and ensure your restoration is in good condition.
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Avoiding Certain Foods and Beverages: Foods and beverages such as hard candy and sugary drinks can damage dental restorations. It’s important to avoid these foods or consume them in moderation.
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Potential Risks and Complications: All dental restorations have potential risks and complications, such as infection or damage to adjacent teeth. Discussing these risks with your dentist before undergoing any procedure is important.
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Tips For Maintaining the Longevity of Dental Restorations: Avoid biting down on hard objects, such as pens or ice, as this can damage dental restorations. Use a mouthguard when playing sports to protect your teeth and restorations.
By following these tips, you can help ensure the longevity of your dental restorations and maintain good oral health. If you experience any problems or discomfort with your restoration, it’s important to consult with a dentist as soon as possible.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has given you a better understanding of crowns, bridges and dentures. Each restoration has unique benefits and drawbacks, and it’s essential to consider your specific needs before deciding.
Our dental practice offers many vital services and can help determine the best option. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help restore your smile.