Crowns, Bridges, and Veneers
Crowns
A dental crown, also known as a “cap,” is a laboratory fabricated crown, which is placed over a prepared tooth to restore its appearance or strength and improve its functionality.
Why is a dental crown needed?
Your dentist may recommend a dental crown for one of the following reasons:
- To strengthen and protect a weak tooth from breaking. Teeth with large fillings, root canals, cracks or broken parts may require a dental crown to protect them from further breakage;
- To hold a dental bridge in place;
- To restore the appearance of a discoloured or broken tooth;
- To cover a dental implant.
What is a dental crown made from?
Dental crowns can be made from various materials. Your dentist will assess your situation and will recommend the most appropriate type of dental crown for you. Most common dental crown types include:
- Porcelain bonded precious metal: The inner part of the crown is made of precious metal and is covered by a layer of porcelain on top;
- All porcelain or all ceramic: The entire crown is made of porcelain or ceramic. It has a more natural look and is more suitable for the front teeth;
- Metal: These crowns are made of an alloy of gold or titanium. They have the longest lifespan compared with other types of crowns, as they don’t chip and hardly wear down. However, they have a metallic appearance and are more suitable for the out of sight molars.
Bridges
If you are missing one or several teeth, your dentist may recommend using a dental bridge. Missing teeth create a gap between your teeth that might feel uncomfortable, look unsightly, and result in gum, jawbone or bite complications. Using a dental bridge will fill the gap created by the lost teeth and improve your oral health and smile.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge, also known as a “fixed bridge,” is one or several artificial teeth fused between two dental crowns. The dental crowns will be placed over your natural teeth or implants on either end of the gap in your mouth and will firmly secure the dental bridge in place.
Why do I need a dental bridge?
Your dentist may recommend a dental bridge for the following reasons:
- To re-adjust your bite and distribute the pressure properly among your teeth;
- To maintain the shape of your face;
- To prevent your teeth from moving out of place;
- To restore your ability to chew properly and improve your speech and pronunciation;
- To improve your smile.
How to care for dental bridges?
Dental bridges require proper dental care just like your natural teeth. Your dentist will show you how to use a floss threader to correctly floss around your dental bridge. Daily brushing and flossing, and regular visits to your dentist and dental hygienist will ensure that your bridge lasts for many years.
Are there any alternatives to dental bridges?
Yes! Your dentist will examine your situation and may recommend alternative solutions such as dental implants or partial removable dentures. However, it is only your dentist who is the best professional to tell which treatment is appropriate for you.
Veneers
A dental veneer is a thin layer of porcelain or resin attached to the front of the teeth to improve their appearance.
What are the reasons for using veneers?
Veneers can be used for the following reasons to improve the appearance of the teeth:
- Discoloured teeth;
- Worn-down teeth;
- Chipped or broken teeth;
- Teeth that are smaller than average;
- Teeth, which are misaligned, irregularly shaped or are uneven;
- Teeth with large gaps.
If you need more information about crowns, bridges and veneers or would like to discuss your options, please do not hesitate to contact one of our three clinics at Chilliwack. We will book a free consultation appointment for you to review your options with your dentist.