Bridges and Crowns
If you need to have a dental crown or need to replace a missing tooth and cannot have a dental implant, Charmoy Dental in Randolph patients come first philosophy is the office for you.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown (also known as a “dental cap”) is a cover that’s cemented in place over a weak or damaged tooth, with the goals of restoring the tooth’s shape, protecting the remaining portion of the tooth, and helping the patient avoid an extraction. Crowns are often made from ceramic, metal, porcelain, or resin.
A tooth can need a dental crown for various reasons such as:
- Decay
- Cracks
- Broken beyond being able to repair with a dental filling
- Following root canal treatment
- Discoloration
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a row of artificial teeth that’s inserted into the space where one or more natural teeth were removed. Each end of the bridge typically includes a dental crown—these crowns are placed over the existing teeth on either side of the gap, and those capped teeth then serve as anchors for the bridge.
In some cases—for example, where a patient has teeth on only one side of the gap—the bridge will attach to only one anchor tooth (this is known as a “cantilever bridge”). Or, if the patient has teeth missing at the front of their mouth, the dentist may use wings to connect the bridge to the anchor teeth on each side (this is referred to as a “Maryland bridge”).
Even if you’re not currently experiencing any difficulties due to a missing tooth (or teeth), it’s important to fill the leftover space. Over time, the remaining teeth on either side of the gap may gradually move into the space, and even the teeth on the opposite jaw can begin moving upward or downward into the space. Not only can this affect your smile’s appearance, but it can also cause pain, bite issues, and difficulty chewing.
Crowns vs. Bridges vs. Implants
As was explained above, a dental crown is placed over a damaged tooth, while a dental bridge takes the place of one or more missing teeth. It’s important to distinguish crowns and bridges—both of which sit on top of an existing tooth, whereas dental implants, which are artificial tooth roots.
Request an Appointment
If you need a dental bridge or crown, contact Charmoy Dental Associates in Randolph and ask to schedule an appointment at our Randolph, NJ, office. it is their goal to make the process as pain-free as possible. We look forward to helping you with your general or cosmetic dentistry needs.