Traditional methods to replace a missing tooth or teeth include the fabrication of a bridge. To replace a missing tooth with a bridge, at least one tooth on either side of the space created by the missing tooth must be prepared for a crown. Then a false tooth is joined to the crowns, and the entire structure is cemented to the prepared teeth. The patient cannot remove the bridge, and special aids are available to keep it clean.
Dental Crown is a tooth-like covering placed over a carefully prepared existing tooth. Used to strengthen, restore or improve the appearance of your natural tooth a crown is placed on an individual tooth much like a thimble over your finger. One of the most common is to support the tooth when there is no longer sufficient tooth structure left to place a filling. There are several ways of restoring teeth, the most common being a filling or bonding. Crowns are used to strengthen a tooth and repair badly decayed, broken, severely discolored, misaligned teeth or capped the tooth after root canal treatment. Crowns may also be used to protect the structure of a tooth that is fractured or broken. Crowns completely cover teeth, restoring them to their natural color, size, shape, and function. The location of the crown in the mouth usually dictates the type of material used. The tooth under the crown is reduced in size. The crown will be permanently cemented over the reduced tooth. While you are waiting for the permanent crown to be fabricated, your dentist will provide you with a temporary one to wear. Crowns have a much longer life span than bonding, resist stains better, hold their color and resist chipping and cracking. Crowns, however, take longer to prepare than bonding and are not reversible. Your dentist can recommend which type of restoration is best for your particular situation. If the tooth is severely decayed, little tooth structure remains or after root canal treatment for the back tooth, it may be necessary to place a metal post into the tooth to support the crown. If this is the case, root canal therapy will be performed.
Here’s a detailed comparison between dental bridge and dental implants to help you decide which option is best for you:
Feature | Dental Implants | Dental Bridges |
---|---|---|
Support | Standalone by jawbone | Anchored to neighboring teeth |
Stability | Very stable and feels like natural teeth | Stable but depends on neighboring teeth |
Bone Preservation | Prevents bone loss | Does not stimulate bone |
Longevity | Over 20 years for implant, 10 years for crown over | 10 to 15 years |
Tooth Impact | No damage to nearby teeth | Requires shaving healthy teeth |
Appearance | Very natural and life-like | Natural, but less lifelike over time |
Maintenance | Brush and floss like natural teeth | Special flossing tools needed |
Procedure Time | Require healing period 3 months | 7-10 days |
Cost | Higher upfront cost | Lower initial cost |
Suitability | Ideal for single or multiple missing teeth | Better for a few teeth and no returning to Pattaya |
Dental Center by specialist. Dental cleaning, Teeth whitening, Implant, Cosmetic, full mouth restoration.
Smile Dental Center
111/76-77 South Pattaya road Nongprue, Banglamung Chonburi 20150 Tel: 083 066 9486
Everyday: 10:00 – 20:00