Dental Bridges & Crowns

Onlays, crowns and bridges are usually used to restore shape, size and strength of a tooth, to improve the appearance of the tooth or to close a space from a missing tooth. The onlay, crown or bridge is cemented into place; the dentist will offer this option to you if a simple filling is not sufficient for your needs.

Onlays, crowns and bridges are made of many different materials. Your dentist will explain the difference between them and advise which may be the most suitable for you.

The impressions of your teeth are sent to a dental lab, where skilled technicians create custom crowns and bridges based on the dentist’s specifications.

Dental bridges and crowns are essential components of modern dentistry, offering solutions to several dental issues. Dental bridges, for instance, are particularly beneficial for individuals missing one or more teeth. They consist of a false tooth or teeth, known as pontics, which are held in place by abutment teeth on either side of the gap. This not only restores the functionality of the mouth but also prevents the remaining teeth from shifting out of position, which can lead to further dental complications.

Crowns, on the other hand, are used to entirely cover or “cap” a damaged tooth or dental implant. They can be made from various materials, including metal, porcelain fused to metal, or all-ceramic, each offering different benefits in terms of durability and aesthetics. Crowns are crucial in restoring the strength and appearance of a tooth that has been weakened by decay, a large filling, or after a root canal treatment.

Both dental bridges and crowns require careful planning and precision during their creation and fitting. Digital impressions and advanced technologies like CAD/CAM are often used to ensure the restoration fits perfectly and blends seamlessly with the natural teeth. Proper care and maintenance, such as good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, are vital to extend the lifespan of these dental restorations, which can last many years with the right attention.

Indications for dental crowns

Dental crowns are versatile restorations used in various situations. They are often indicated for teeth that have undergone root canal treatment, as these teeth can become brittle and more susceptible to fractures. Crowns are also used to restore teeth with large dental cavities that cannot be adequately repaired with fillings. Additionally, crowns are ideal for teeth that have been damaged due to trauma or decay, providing a protective cover that restores strength and functionality. For individuals with teeth worn down by grinding or erosion, crowns can help rebuild the tooth structure. Moreover, crowns can cover stained or badly shaped teeth, improving the overall appearance of the smile.

Alternatives to dental crowns

While dental crowns are a popular choice for restoring damaged teeth, there are several alternatives to consider:

• Dental fillings: Used to repair teeth damaged by decay or trauma, fillings are a less invasive option for smaller cavities.
• Dental implants: These are used to replace missing teeth and can be combined with crowns or bridges for a comprehensive restoration.
• Veneers: Thin layers of porcelain or composite material bonded to the front of teeth, veneers improve the appearance of teeth that are discolored, chipped, or irregularly shaped.
• Bonding: This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored resin to repair chips or cracks, offering a quick and cost-effective solution for minor dental issues.

By understanding the various options available, you can make an informed decision about the best treatment for your dental needs.

Types of dental bridges

Dental bridges are a reliable, widely used solution for replacing missing teeth, effectively restoring both function and the aesthetic appeal of your smile. There are several types of dental bridges available, each specifically designed to address particular dental needs and clinical situations. Understanding the differences among these options can help you and your dental professional choose the most suitable treatment approach for your unique circumstances and oral health needs.

Traditional dental bridges are the most commonly utilised type in clinical practice. They consist of one or more false teeth, known as pontics, which are securely anchored in place by dental crowns that are fitted over the abutment teeth on either side of the gap left by your missing tooth. Traditional bridges are particularly ideal when you have strong, healthy natural teeth adjacent to the space, and they can effectively be used to replace one or several missing teeth in a consecutive row. These bridges are often crafted from highly durable materials, such as porcelain fused to metal, ceramic crowns, or advanced zirconia crowns, offering exceptional strength and a remarkably natural appearance that blends seamlessly with your existing teeth.

Cantilever dental bridges are similar in overall design to traditional bridges, but are used when only one natural tooth is adjacent to the gap. In this case, the false tooth is supported by a dental crown on a single abutment tooth, creating a cantilever effect. Cantilever bridges are less commonly used and are typically reserved for areas of your mouth that experience less biting force, such as the front teeth, where aesthetic considerations are paramount. They can be an excellent option when the surrounding teeth are not strong enough to support a traditional bridge or when space limitations make other options less viable.

Maryland dental bridges, also known as resin-bonded bridges, offer a significantly more conservative approach to tooth replacement. Instead of using full dental crowns, a Maryland bridge secures the false tooth with a thin layer of metal or porcelain wings that are bonded to the backs of your adjacent natural teeth. This method preserves substantially more of your natural enamel and is often used to replace missing front teeth, where aesthetics are especially important. Maryland bridges are considerably less invasive and can be a suitable choice for patients seeking a minimally invasive procedure that preserves the integrity of their existing tooth structure.

Implant-supported bridges provide a modern, highly stable solution for those missing multiple teeth in sequence. Rather than relying on your natural teeth for support, these bridges are anchored by dental implants that are placed directly into your jawbone, creating a foundation that mimics natural tooth roots. Implant-supported bridges are especially beneficial when several teeth are missing in a row or when your surrounding teeth are too weak to serve as reliable abutments. This type of bridge offers exceptional durability and can help maintain the health of your jawbone and surrounding teeth by preventing bone loss that typically occurs after tooth loss.

When selecting the right dental bridge for your situation, several important factors come into play, including the location of your missing tooth, the overall health of your abutment teeth, and your overall oral health. Your dentist will carefully assess your individual needs and recommend the most appropriate type of bridge, whether it’s a traditional bridge, a cantilever bridge, a Maryland bridge, or an implant-supported bridge. The choice of materials, such as ceramic, zirconia, or metal crowns, will also be tailored to ensure a natural look and long-lasting results that can withstand the demands of daily use.

Proper care is essential to maintain your dental bridge and protect your overall oral health for years to come. This includes brushing and flossing daily, paying particular attention to cleaning under the bridge where bacteria can accumulate, and attending regular dental check-ups every 6 months or as recommended by your dental professional. With good oral hygiene practices and routine visits to your dental clinic, your bridge can last for many years, typically 10 to 15 years or longer, helping you enjoy a confident smile and significantly improved function.

In summary, dental bridges offer numerous benefits for those looking to replace missing teeth and restore their oral function. By understanding the different types of dental bridges available and working closely with your dentist to evaluate your specific needs, you can find the best solution to restore your smile and maintain the health of your natural teeth for optimal long-term outcomes.