Crowns, Bridges & Dentures
Crowns are a permanent covering, or “cap,” that is fitted onto a damaged tooth, helping restore the tooth to its original size and shape. A crown can also be placed on top of an implant to provide a tooth-like shape and structure. Mutual materials can be used for crowns, including metal alloys and gold, as well as porcelain and ceramic. The latter two can be matched to the color of your natural tooth.
Reasons for crowns:
- Broken or fractured teeth
- Cosmetic enhancement
- Decaying teeth
- Fractured fillings
- Large fillings
- Root canal complications
Crowns are a reliable, durable form of dental restoration which will help maintain the integrity of your teeth for many, many years.
Bridges are often recommended to patients who are missing one or more teeth. Gaps between teeth can eventually allow for the remaining teeth to rotate or shift into the empty spaces.
Bridges used to replace a missing tooth are cemented to the natural teeth or implants surrounding the empty area. These teeth, referred to as abutments, serve as anchors for the bridge. A Pontic, or replacement tooth is attached to the crowns that cover the abutments. Bridges can be made in several types of materials. Dr. Filali and his team will assist you in deciding which material is right for you. Like crowns, porcelain and ceramic bridges can be matched to your natural tooth color.
Bridges can last a lifetime, however some may come loose or fall out. It is best to maintain thorough oral hygiene to allow for the maximum lifespan of the bridge.