Dental Crowns/Fixed Bridges
Crowns and fixed bridges are used to treat problems of
decay, fractured teeth, malocclusion, and to protect teeth which have had
root canal treatment, or large fillings. They can also be used to change
tooth color and shape.
Dental crowns are restorations that cover up
or cap natural teeth, restoring them to their natural size. A well-made
crown should blend in with the natural teeth and be unnoticeable. The crown
not only improves function and appearance, but can also protect a tooth that
might otherwise be lost.
A fixed bridge is designed to replace teeth
that have been lost. Aside from the obvious effects of missing teeth on
personal appearance and chewing, there are other concerns. Without replacing
missing teeth, the normal pressure of chewing can stress the remaining teeth
and cause them to shift out of alignment resulting in additional problems
chewing.
Dental crowns and fixed bridges are usually made of
porcelain for optimum appearance and may contain an inner layer of gold
alloy for strength. Crowns or bridges made entirely of gold alloy may be
more advantageous on back molars that do not require porcelain for
appearance.
The procedure for fabricating crowns or bridges is
usually accomplished in several appointments, the first of which includes
preparation and shaping of the teeth, impressions, color selection and
digital photography for laboratory communication, and placement of temporary
crowns or bridges. At the subsequent appointment, the new crown or bridge is
cemented in place.
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