What are dental crowns?

A crown is a “cap” that covers and strengthens a damaged tooth. It also improves the appearance, shape, and alignment of your tooth/teeth. This crown is made of dental-grade porcelain or ceramic and is also placed over an implant to look and function just like a natural tooth.

When is a crown recommended?

A crown is usually recommended when you need to:

• Replace a large filling
• Protect a weak tooth from further fractures
• Cover a dental implant
• Restore a damaged/broken tooth
• Attach a bridge
• Cover a poorly shaped or too discolored tooth
• Protect a tooth that underwent a root canal treatment

 What does a dental bridge help with?

A dental bridge is usually suggested if you’re missing one or more teeth. They are cemented to the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap.

What are the disadvantages of missing teeth?

Missing teeth can be a huge issue when it comes to the facial structure, functionality of the mouth, self-confidence, etc. Here are some of their most prominent drawbacks:

• When a tooth goes missing, it provides extra space for the adjacent teeth to shift from their place. Hence, missing teeth could lead to ‘drifting’ of the remaining teeth in the mouth.
• When teeth move from their sockets in the jawbone, it can change the shape of the jaw. It could give rise to a malocclusion.
• Teeth that drift from their sockets tend to loosen up from their sockets, leading to further tooth loss.
• Often patients who have missing teeth complain about a severe headache and sometimes pain in the facial bones as well.
• You may face hindered functionality of the mouth. It completely changes your biting, chewing, and speaking abilities.
• Most important of all, missing teeth can be a huge psychological issue. People with missing teeth would feel uncomfortable even to smile. They could become a laughing stock among their closed ones.

How Long can Crowns and Bridges Last?

Crowns and bridges can last over a lifetime, depending on how much care you provide. In order to make your crown or bridge last, follow the steps below:

• Practice good oral hygiene.
• Keep your gums and teeth healthy.
• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day.
• Floss daily.
• Visit your dentist or hygienist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
• Avoid chewing any kind of hard food, ice, or other hard things.

Please schedule an appointment online or call us at (503) 253-1262 to consult with our dentist, and we will be happy to assist you further.