Understanding Dental Crowns and Bridges: When You Need Them
Crowns and Bridges are what we refer to in dentistry as ‘indirect’ restorations. Crowns are often used to ‘cover’ or ‘cap’ a tooth while a bridge is used to replace a missing tooth (or teeth).
Your dentist may recommend a dental crown in any of the following scenarios:
- Your tooth has a fracture or has broken in a way that a simple filling is not enough to repair it.
- Your tooth has had a large cavity.
- You have had a root canal and now a crown is needed to keep your tooth strong.
In the event that a patient has a missing tooth (or missing teeth) a bridge is a great option to replace the missing tooth. Previously, this was our only way to permanently replace missing teeth. In modern dentistry, we now have the option to choose from placement of a bridge or an implant. Each option offers a unique set of advantages. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Nalbandian to learn more about which option might be best for you!
What Materials are Crown and Bridges Made From?
- Full metal: This can be gold or an alloy of metals designed to be durable and highly effective. Although metal crowns and bridges were the norm decades ago, we now have equally functional and highly esthetic options.
- Porcelain fused to metal (PFM): This type of restoration has a metal lining substructure to provide strength and a porcelain covering that provides a highly esthetic tooth-colored restoration.
- Emax/Porcelain: This is a highly cosmetic option often reserved for single unit crowns but not frequently used for bridges due to its limitations in strength.
- Zirconia: This is a highly versatile, metal free, and tooth colored material. Zirconia is praised for its strength and ability to provide optimal esthetic results.
How Long Do Crowns and Bridges Last?
The longevity of any restoration is dependent on several factors including 1. Operator skill, 2. Material strength and 3. Patient hygiene/care.
When done correctly and proper hygiene protocols are adhered to, crowns and bridges are designed to last 10-15 years on average. It is not uncommon to see a crown last 20+ years.
Contact Dr. Nalbandian and her team if you think you may be in need of a crown or bridge to learn more about your restorative options.
