We all want to maintain a sparkling, white smile that speaks of our health and vitality. But when faced with damaged or unhealthy teeth due to cavities or trauma, it can be difficult to know the best restoration option – crowns and bridges. Finding the right fit for your specific needs is essential, as dental crowns and bridges directly impact your smile’s aesthetic appeal and are critical for maintaining proper oral hygiene. In this post, we will explain why patients should consider using crowns and bridges for different situations to feel confident in choosing the best solution for themselves or their loved ones!
The Different Types of Crowns and Bridges
Gold Alloy: Gold alloy crowns have been around since ancient times, known for their strength and durability. Gold alloy is malleable and can be easily shaped to fit the tooth, making it one of the most popular crowns for dental use. It also does not rust or weaken over time due to its high corrosion resistance.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): PFM crowns combine metal and porcelain materials fused together with a thin layer of ceramic covering the metal base. This type of crown provides strength and durability while still being aesthetically pleasing, as it mimics the natural color of teeth. The downside is that it may chip or wear down over time due to the metal core underneath, which can cause sensitivity in some cases.
Ceramic/Porcelain: Ceramic or porcelain crowns are made entirely from ceramic or porcelain material and provide a realistic look and feel. The good thing about this type is that it doesn’t corrode, chip, or wear down like other materials. However, because the material is brittle, it can sometimes be more susceptible to cracking.
Zirconia: Zirconia is a newer crown material that combines strength and aesthetics in one package. It is composed of zirconium oxide, which gives it its natural white color and makes it very strong and resistant to chipping or wearing down over time. The downside is that it may cost more than other types due to its intricate manufacturing process.
Getting the Right Fit
There are several steps in the process when it comes to getting the right fit for crowns and bridges. First, your dentist will take an impression of your tooth using putty or wax. This impression is then sent to a lab, where technicians will use it as a guide when making the new crown or bridge.
Once the lab receives your impression, it will create a model of your mouth to create the crown or bridge that fits properly and looks natural. The technicians will also make sure that the size and shape of the crown or bridge match the adjacent teeth so that it blends in perfectly with your smile. After creating the new crown or bridge, they will return it to your dentist, who will bond it to your tooth.
To get a perfect fit for your crown or bridge, you must take great care when getting an impression taken and make sure it is sent off accurately to the lab. It is also important to carefully choose a qualified dentist with experience creating dental restorations. With the right technology and expertise, you can be sure that your crown or bridge will fit correctly and look beautiful.
Finally, practicing good oral hygiene is essential to keep your dental restoration looking its best. Be sure to brush twice daily and floss regularly to remove any plaque or tartar that may build up around the crown or bridge. With proper care, you can be sure your new smile will last many years.
Caring for Crowns and Bridges
Caring for crowns and bridges requires extra attention and effort to ensure longevity. Here are some tips on how to care for your crowns and bridges:
1. Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove plaque build-up around the edge of the crown or bridge. Floss daily along the gum line, being careful not to snag or cut the floss against the edges of your restoration.
2. Avoid damaging activities such as chewing ice and hard candy or biting into overly tough foods like apples or carrots – these can chip or damage the surface of your crown or bridge.
3. Visit our dentist for regular check-ups and professional cleanings. During these visits, the dentist can check for signs of wear or damage to the crowns or bridges and make any necessary adjustments.
4. If you notice any chips, cracks, or excessive wear, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Any repairs must be made promptly to prevent further damage to your dental restorations.
5. Follow your dentist’s advice regarding using oral hygiene products – they will advise on what type of toothpaste and mouthwash is suitable for use with crowns and bridges.
Conclusion
Now that you know more about getting properly fitting crowns and bridges, it is time to take the next step. You can choose from various materials and packages to get the smile you deserve.
By working with a qualified and experienced dental professional, like those in Inglewood, you can ensure an excellent fitting crown or bridge that will give you years of reliable and attractive use. Crowns and bridges are an extremely important part of an oral health care plan, and proper fitting is essential to their long-term success. Experience what quality dental work can do for your overall oral health today!