Dental crowns are a type of restoration used to restore damaged or decayed teeth, while dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is made to fit over the entire visible portion of the tooth. Dental bridges, on the other hand, are composed of one or more fake teeth surrounded by a dental crown on either side. For a dental bridge, the crowns are used to support the fake teeth that “bridge” the gap left by missing teeth. Crowns and bridges can also be used in coordination with dental implants and are known as implant-supported crowns or implant-supported bridges. At Birch Point Dental Clinic, we place implant-supported crowns and bridges once the implant has fully osseointegrated.
Did you know…
All dental crowns have the same basic structure, but there are four different types of dental bridges each with their own structure. The most common are traditional dental bridges, however there are also Cantilever bridges, Maryland Bonded Bridges (not offered at Birch Point Dental Clinic), and Implant-supported bridges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a candidate for a dental crown or bridge?
You may be a candidate for a dental crown or bridge if you have one or more damaged, decayed, or missing teeth. Candidates for dental crowns are individuals who have a significant portion of their natural tooth structure that has been damaged or decayed. When an onlay cannot be used to restore the tooth, then a crown is usually recommended. Candidates for a dental bridge are individuals who have one or more missing teeth that are surrounded by mostly healthy teeth on either side. To determine if you are an ideal candidate for a dental crown or bridge, schedule an appointment with Dr. Sanket Upadhyay at Birch Point Dental Clinic today.
What can I expect when having a crown or bridge placed at Birch Point Dental Clinic?
When having a crown or bridge placed at Birch Point Dental Clinic, you can expect to attend two dental appointments. This is because the first appointment is necessary to prepare the tooth and take a dental impression. A dental lab will then fabricate your custom crown or bridge, then the second appointment is used to place the restoration.
To prepare your tooth for a crown, Dr. Sanket Upadhyay will first numb your mouth to make you comfortable. Then, he will begin by removing any damaged or decayed tissue, and reshaping the remaining tissue. In order for a dental crown to be placed, the natural tooth structure must be reduced in size, which is why dental crowns are usually only placed when the tooth has already been significantly affected by damage or decay. Once the tooth has been prepared, a dental impression will be taken before placing the temporary crown.
This same process is used to place a dental bridge as well, however it is repeated on both teeth that will be supporting the bridge. It usually takes about 1-2 weeks for the lab to fabricate your crown or bridge, then you will come in for your second appointment. During this appointment, your restoration will be fitted and adjusted as necessary before being cemented to the affected tooth or teeth.
What can I expect after having a crown or bridge placed?
Your expectations will depend on whether your temporary or permanent restoration has been placed. This is because temporary restorations are not nearly as strong as permanent restorations since they are only made to last a couple of weeks. Therefore, after you have a temporary crown or bridge placed, you will want to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth to reduce the chances of the temporary restoration being damaged or falling out.
Since your permanent crown or bridge is made using durable materials, you can return to your usual chewing habits once it has been placed. However, it is recommended to avoid foods that are extremely hard, crunchy, chewy, or sticky, since they can potentially damage your restoration. It is also important to properly care for your crown or bridge by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting Dr. Sanket Upadhyay every six months for an exam and cleaning. When properly cared for, most crowns and bridges last about 10-15 years.
Call today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Sanket Upadhyay at Birch Point Dental Clinic. Located in the Bay & Algoma neighborhood, our location allows you to have your teeth looked at while also providing the opportunity to shop local and enjoy spaghetti take out at the famous Italian Cultural Centre across the street.
