Dental Crowns and Bridges: Restoring Strength and Function to Your Smile
When a tooth is damaged or missing, it affects more than just appearance—it impacts how you chew, speak, and maintain oral health. At Town Square Dental & Orthodontics, we use dental crowns and bridges to restore strength, function, and confidence in your smile.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers and protects a damaged or weakened tooth. Crowns are commonly used for:
- Teeth with large cavities or fillings
- Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy
- Broken, cracked, or worn-down teeth
- Improving the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth
Crowns are made from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, or zirconia, providing both strength and natural-looking aesthetics.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a fixed appliance that replaces one or more missing teeth. It consists of an artificial tooth (or teeth) anchored by crowns on neighboring teeth or by implants. Bridges are ideal for patients who want a secure, non-removable solution to fill gaps caused by tooth loss.
The Crown and Bridge Process
- Consultation: Your dentist examines the tooth or gap, discusses options, and takes digital scans or impressions.
- Preparation: For crowns, the tooth is shaped to fit the cap. For bridges, the support teeth are prepared for crowns.
- Temporary Restoration: A temporary crown or bridge protects your teeth while your permanent one is made.
- Placement: The final restoration is cemented or bonded securely in place, restoring full function and appearance.
Benefits of Dental Crowns and Bridges
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), crowns and bridges help preserve oral function and prevent complications caused by damaged or missing teeth. Benefits include:
- Restored chewing and speaking ability
- Prevention of shifting teeth
- Strengthened weakened teeth
- Improved smile aesthetics
Peer-reviewed studies show that well-maintained crowns and bridges can last 10–15 years or longer with good oral hygiene.
How Crowns and Bridges Compare to Other Options
When deciding on treatment, patients often weigh crowns and bridges against other restorative options like dental implants or dentures. While implants offer long-term stability, bridges provide a quicker solution and don’t require surgery. Crowns, meanwhile, are often essential to save a compromised tooth rather than extracting it.
Caring for Your Crowns and Bridges
To extend the lifespan of your restoration:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss around crowns and use floss threaders or water flossers under bridges
- Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens
- Schedule regular checkups and cleanings
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
When to Consider Crowns or Bridges
You may be a candidate for a crown or bridge if you have:
- A tooth that is too damaged for a filling
- One or more missing teeth
- Weak or cracked teeth that need protection
- Cosmetic concerns that veneers or whitening cannot address
Bringing It All Together
Dental crowns and bridges offer reliable, long-lasting solutions for restoring teeth and improving oral health. With the right care, they blend seamlessly into your smile and help you enjoy the foods and confidence you love.
Need a crown or bridge? Contact Town Square Dental & Orthodontics in Gilbert, AZ at (480) 295-7155 to Schedule a Consultation and restore your smile with strength and beauty.