When you need a tooth replaced or repaired, you should talk to your general dentist about crowns and bridges. They are two key restorative solutions that dentists use to fix tooth damage due to injuries or infections and smile imperfections like discoloration. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry estimates that 15 million Americans have these devices. Both treatments are available at The Healthy Smile Center in Ashtabula, OH.
What Are Crowns and Bridges?
Crowns and bridges are dental devices that are designed to look and function just like your teeth. A crown also called a cap, is made to fit one tooth while a bridge is made of two crowns and a false tooth (pontic) that spans across three or more teeth. They are commonly made of porcelain material, which makes them very durable and resilient. Your dentist can also make what is called a porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown—the interior is metal with a porcelain exterior.
What These Devices Can Do for Your Smile
Crowns and bridges make your smile stronger, healthier and better looking. Crowns are most often used to shore up a tooth after a root canal or when it’s broken due to an injury. In the case of a missing tooth, a bridge covers up the open space so that you can eat, speak and smile normally again. Your Ashtabula general dentist will carefully examine your teeth and gums to decide if either of these treatments will be beneficial for your smile.
How Long Will These Devices Last?
The great thing about getting a crown or bridge is that this dental restoration will be a part of your smile for a relatively long time before it needs to be replaced. With regular visits and meticulous at-home dental care, you can reasonably expect your crown or bridge to last for five to 10 years.
Restore Your Teeth, Regain Your Confidence
Many dental problems you may be experiencing can be fixed with the help of crowns or bridges. Call your general dentists at The Healthy Smile Center in Ashtabula, OH, at (440) 992-2700 today.