CROWNS
A major advantage to choosing porcelain crowns is they can be created to look exactly like the teeth they are replacing, or an even more aesthetically-pleasing version. Porcelain crowns are available in a wide variety of shades in order to perfectly color-match them to your existing teeth. This will provide the most natural look, so there is little evidence that you have undergone any dental work at all. Because porcelain crowns are the most cosmetically attractive, they are usually used for the front teeth.
All-porcelain crowns are also a much better choice for anyone with a metal allergy. Since these crowns contain no form of metal at all, the wearer should experience no adverse reactions.
Porcelain crowns are generally durable and long-lasting. They require no more care than the rest of your teeth–just a simple regimen of regular brushing and flossing. However, if you tend to grind your teeth or clench your jaw during sleep, you may require fitting for a mouth guard to prevent the excess pressure from causing your crown to crack.
BRIDGES
As people age, their teeth often tend to decay and weaken at an increasing rate. The act of chewing imposes significant crushing and shearing forces on the teeth, which can exacerbate the situation. In many cases, dentists may have to resort to reconstructive (or restorative) dentistry to maintain the proper function of the mouth. Fortunately, there are options for replacing lost teeth.
Fixed bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. This procedure involves creating either a crown for the tooth or an implant on either side of the missing tooth and then placing a pontic (false tooth) in between. Removable bridges are often more affordable and more convenient than permanently fixed structures while offering nearly the same support and reliability. They are held in place with metal clasps or precision attachments.
Over time, missing teeth can have a negative effect on your oral health. When a tooth is missing for a prolonged length of time, the adjacent teeth naturally begin shifting into the gap. This can cause a misaligned bite and lead to other significant orofacial problems such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). Bone degeneration also is a long-term consequence of lost teeth.
Replacing your missing teeth means that your oral health will also be restored. Your jawbone will remain stable, instead of diminishing away. Plus, your bite can be properly aligned, facilitating comfortable oral posture, relieve TMJ discomfort, and you can enjoy food again.
