Crowns and bridges are two of the most common ways to repair teeth or replace missing teeth. At Apple Dental, we are pleased to offer both crowns and bridges to our patients from throughout the Monroe, LA, area.
Important Information about Crowns
Crowns, also referred to as “caps,” are dental appliances that are designed to completed cover the tooth surface, right down to the gum line. Crowns are sometimes used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of a damaged or badly stained tooth. They can also be used as a means of repairing a badly decayed tooth that cannot be repaired with a filling. Although crowns can be made from a variety of different materials, porcelain crowns can be created to very closely match the shade of your existing tooth, so they’re barely noticeable.
Conditions That May Require a Crown
Your dentist may recommend a crown for any of the following reasons:
- Protecting soft or weakened teeth
- Supporting extensively filled teeth
- Anchoring bridgework
- Restoring the appearance of misshapen, chipped or discolored teeth
- Covering a dental implant
- Rebuilding a tooth after a root canal
- Creating a healthy bite
Important Information about Bridges
If you are missing one or more teeth, it’s very important to replace those teeth. If you don’t, much more than just your ability to chew food will be affected. Eventually, over time, your remaining teeth will shift in place to fill in the gap left behind by the missing teeth. That can throw your bite off, which can lead to discomfort and even problems with your jaw. Often, dental bridges are an excellent way to replace missing teeth.
Consisting of one or more artificial teeth set in a metal frame that fits snugly over existing teeth on either side, a bridge can be either fixed (not removable) or removable. Talk to your dentist about which type of bridge would be best for you.
Conditions That May Require a Bridge
Your dentist may recommend a bridge for any of the following reasons:
- Restoring a healthy bite to facilitate chewing
- Maintaining the contours of the face
- Improving your smile
- Reducing damage to remaining teeth from a misaligned bite
- Restoring self-confidence after an accident or injury
Call Our Office Today
For more information about crowns and bridges, or to schedule an appointment with Drs. Sanderson, Haynes or Williamson, contact our office today. We are pleased to serve patients from throughout Monroe, LA, area.