Damaged or missing teeth can generate a lot of problems. Apart from affecting your facial appearance, missing teeth may also impact the functionality of your mouth. You may not be able to speak well or eat well. Fortunately, many restorative procedures are available to address the concern. Dental crowns and bridges are among the most popular and reliable options among them.

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are covers or caps that we place over chipped, broken, or damaged teeth. They restore the ideal shape and size of your teeth, thereby improving their functionality. Crowns also strengthen your teeth.

Dental crowns are a sought-after treatment option for cavities that are too large for fillings. In some cases, we also perform this procedure after root canal treatment.

Crowns are made using a variety of materials, such as metal alloys, ceramics, porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, and composite resin. We color these crowns to match the exact appearance of the rest of your teeth.

What Are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges consist of one or more false teeth and two crowns that fit on either side of the gap left by your missing teeth. The false teeth are placed in between, thus restoring your smile. The artificial teeth are known as pontics and are made using various materials such as porcelain, alloys, gold, or even a combination of all of them.

As the name suggests, dental bridges work by bridging or filling the gap created by missing teeth. They can be supported by natural teeth or dental implants.

What Is the Procedure?

The procedure for dental crowns is very straightforward. After examining your teeth, we will take an X-ray and a digital impression. Using digital technology, we will make 3D models of your teeth and then prepare the crown. Some crowns can be placed on the same day.

In the case of dental bridges, we will prepare your adjacent teeth and then place a temporary bridge during your first appointment. In the meantime, we will create a permanent bridge after taking impressions of your teeth and mouth. You will return to our clinic to have your final bridge fitted and secured once it is manufactured. 

What Are the Advantages of Crowns and Bridges?

• Both dental crowns and bridges aim to enhance the appearance of your smile and improve the functionality of your teeth.
• They also improve occlusion and ease pain if you are suffering from a TMJ disorder.
• Dental bridges prevent your adjacent teeth from shifting.

Please reach out to our dental practice in Flanders, NJ, to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists and learn more about crowns and bridges. You can contact our dentist in Flanders, NJ, at (973) 370-8917 or schedule your consultation online.