Dental Crowns & Bridges
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns, also known as caps, are restorations designed to restore damaged teeth. They can be crafted from a variety of materials, including metal, porcelain, or porcelain-fused-to-metal. Crowns are commonly used to repair teeth damaged by cavities or to replace large portions of teeth lost due to injury.
Crowns are also ideal for covering teeth that are permanently discolored, whether from external or intrinsic stains, or from injury. In such cases, porcelain crowns are often the best choice. Additionally, crowns can correct misshapen teeth, giving them a more even appearance.
Finally, crowns can be used in conjunction with dental implants. Known as implant-retained crowns, these are custom-made to attach to a titanium post via an abutment.
Dental Bridges
If you’re trying to replace two to four teeth at a time, our dentists will likely recommend a dental bridge. Bridges are made up of three to four dental crowns. A crown on either side is attached to teeth that sit in between them, also known as pontics. The pontics are meant to replace teeth missing in your smile, while the crowns on either side sit on top of existing natural teeth, much like traditional crowns would if they weren’t part of a bridge.
Bridges can also be fitted with dental implants. Instead of relying on natural teeth to anchor them in place, they can be held with implants on either side.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns are quite durable and designed to last through normal daily functions like chewing and grinding. With proper at-home care, crowns and bridges should last at least 10 years. However, you’ll need to avoid using your teeth to perform tasks that are better suited for metal tools. You’ll also need to come in for routine exams and cleanings so our dentists can confirm that your restorations are holding up and that your bite isn’t negatively affected.