Comparing Dentures and Dental Implants
Deciding between dentures and implants can feel complicated. Let us help you weigh the pros and cons to determine the best solution. Keep reading to learn more.
Are Crowns and Bridges the Same Thing?
: The first dental crowns appeared in the Philippines around 4000 years ago. Fast forward to the mid-20th century, when modern porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) dental crowns and bridges came into fashion.
Danny Jeon, DMD offers a range of modern restorative dental procedures, such as dental crowns and bridges, as well as other cosmetic and preventative solutions to keep you smiling at Tucker Family Dental in Tucker, GA.
How do dental crowns work?
Dr. Jeon uses a dental crown crafted from porcelain, gold, or other metal to cap a partially broken or decayed tooth.
During the first of two visits, we:
- Remove any decay
- Reshape the tooth to make room for the crown
- Make an impression of your bite using impression paste
- Place a temporary crown over the area until your next appointment
Dr. Jeon sends your impression to a lab to prepare your permanent crown. Two weeks later, he checks the fit before cementing it to your tooth.
How crowns and bridges work together
While a crown stands on its own, a dental bridge uses crowns for support. Dr. Jeon uses a bridge when one or more of your teeth are missing. The bridge anchors an artificial tooth or teeth, called pontics, to a crown on either end.
Dr. Jeon uses several types of bridges, depending on your situation. Options include:
Traditional dental bridge
As the most common type of bridge, it places dental crowns on both ends bonded to a pontic in-between.
Cantilever dental bridge
When you don’t have teeth on both sides of your missing tooth, a cantilever bridge can fill the gap. It has an artificial tooth bonded to a capped tooth on only one side. However, this type of bridge is not as strong as a traditional bridge supported by two teeth.
Maryland dental bridge
A Maryland bridge, aka resin-bonded bridge, uses metal wings attached to the pontic and glued to teeth on both sides. More conservative than other bridges, the supporting teeth aren’t reshaped for a cap. Since it’s not as sturdy as more traditional bridges, it works best on areas near the front of your mouth.
Implant-supported bridge
An implant-supported bridge utilizes dental implants, rather than natural teeth, for support. Once implants integrate into your jawbone, they can be used to support an artificial tooth or teeth.
Dental bridges offer a natural-looking solution for missing teeth. They help restore chewing while preventing other teeth from shifting out of place. Dr. Jeon discusses all your options to help you decide on the best solution.
Proper maintenance for long-lasting success
Much like permanent teeth, crowns and bridges require good hygiene to last. Dr. Jeon recommends you:
- Use a floss threader between the pontic and your gums
- Brush crowns and teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Use gentle, circular motions with the brush positioned at a 45-degree angle to your gumline and brush the top of each tooth
- Use a water flosser to further remove debris, plaque, and bacteria
- Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash
Keep your smile bright
Whether you need a crown, bridge, or other solution to keep your teeth and gums in tip-top shape, you can rely on Tucker Family Dental. To discuss any dental concerns or book a cleaning or exam, call our office at (678) 233-2945 or book an appointment online today.
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