Crowns and Bridges
Crowns
Crowns are a great way to enhance the durability, appearance, and functionality of individual teeth. There are a few reasons that a tooth may need a crown:
- Prolonged clenching and grinding of teeth
- Extensive decay
- Cracks in teeth
- Missing tooth structure
- Support of a root canal tooth
- Failure of an existing filling
If Dr. Kowal or Dr. MacIlwaine determines that a crown is the most appropriate option for saving a tooth, then the most common type of crown that we use at our office is called a PMF crown, or porcelain-fused-to-metal crown.
This type of crown consists of a strong metal core that is covered in a porcelain material which is developed specifically for your individual tooth in a dental lab. The porcelain that covers the metal can come in many different shades. At our office we match the shade to the surrounding teeth in order to come up with a very natural looking tooth.
There are several advantages to the PFM crown including:
- The metal core, which supports the tooth structure underneath
- It is made to withstand the heaviest biting forces and withstands cracking and fracturing.
- Long lasting and extremely durable
- Very natural looking
Bridges
Bridges are a great way to fill in spaces of a missing tooth or teeth while preventing the many problems that can arise with the loss of a tooth. In order to maintain the proper functioning of the mouth, like eating, speaking, and proper alignment, it is crucial that any missing teeth be replaced. Bridges can sometimes be used as a permanent alternative to a smaller partial denture. Like the crown, bridges are made with same material and provide the same support and durability.
The teeth located on either side of the open space are used as anchors for the bridge and provide the needed support. With some adjustments to the neighboring teeth and impressions of the mouth a specialized bridge can be crafted to regain the missing teeth and at the same time improve the appearance of one’s mouth.
If you are interested in Crowns and/or Bridges please contact us for more information.