Bridges are natural-looking dental appliances that can replace a section of missing teeth. Because they are custom-made, bridges are barely noticeable and can restore the natural contour of teeth as well as the proper bite relationship between upper and lower teeth.
Anyone who is missing teeth is usually a candidate for a dental bridge. Bridges are commonly used to replace one or more missing teeth.
Dental bridges serve a number of purposes, including: Replacement of the biting surface of the teeth Stabilization of adjacent teeth Enhances your smile.
It usually requires two appointments. At your first appointment-your dentist will prepare your teeth for the bridge. An impression of your mouth is taken. The impression is sent to the dental technician's laboratory. A temporary bridge is applied which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new bridge is fabricated (temporary bridge serves to protect your teeth and gums). At your second appointment- the temporary bridge is removed and the permanent bridge is cemented in place. How Long Do Dental Bridges Last? On average, dental bridges last between 5 and 7 years. The life span of dental bridges depends on the amount of "wear and tear" it is exposed to and how well you follow good oral hygiene.
Replacing missing teeth should actually make eating easier. Until you become accustomed to the bridge, eat soft foods that have been cut into small pieces.
A crown is used to entirely cover or cap a damaged tooth. Besides strengthening a damaged tooth, a crown can be used to improve its appearance, shape or alignment.
A dental crown completely encases the outer area of the tooth, creating a new outer surface for your tooth. Fillings restore a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc back to its normal function and shape.
A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. At your first appointment-The tooth is reduced in size to accommodate a crown. An impression is taken of the existing tooth. The impression is sent to the dental technician's laboratory. A temporary crown is applied which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory At your second appointment- the temporary crown is removed and permanent crowns are cemented in place. How Long Do Dental Crowns Last? On average, dental crowns last between 5 and 15 years. The life span of a crown depends on the amount of "wear and tear" the crown is exposed to and how well you follow good oral hygiene.
After the procedure you will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown. Occasionally a dental crown might pop off, in which case the crown must be replaced immediately, due to tooth sensitivity and aesthetic appearance. In the case that this happens, please visit your dentist immediately.