A crown is a porcelain cap that fits over an individual tooth and is cemented in place. At Gentilly Family Dental, LLC, our skilled dentists in New Orleans, LA, primarily use crowns when a tooth has been broken due to an accident or it has a cavity that is too large for a regular filling. Bridges are used to fill in the gaps left by one or more missing teeth, and they are anchored to the natural teeth on either side of the gap with crowns. Both of these procedures can dramatically improve the appearance of your teeth, and they can restore your oral function as well.
Dental Crowns
A crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” placed over a tooth to restore its size, shape, and strength. It is cemented in place and fully covers the part of the tooth that is visible above the gum line. Dental crowns can be made from gold, metal alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. The dentist will recommend the best material for your dental health needs and goals.
The Benefits of Dental Crowns
Crowns can strengthen and protect a damaged tooth and they can also be used to improve the appearance of teeth that are misshapen, severely discolored, or have uneven surfaces. Each crown is specifically designed to fit the patient’s unique smile. This means the color, shape, size, and overall aesthetic will be customized to suit the patient’s preferences and needs. This helps ensure the crown looks natural and it does not look out of place compared to the surrounding teeth.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is an artificial tooth held in place by crowns on either side. The artificial tooth in the middle is called a “pontic.” These artificial teeth are usually made from either porcelain or ceramic and can be made to match your other teeth. Dental bridges can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. In addition to filling in gaps in your smile, dental bridges can also improve your speech and ability to chew foods with confidence.
The Advantages of Dental Bridges
A bridge can restore your smile and bite function by replacing missing teeth. Dental bridges are anchored to neighboring teeth, or they can be secured to dental implants. Our doctor can recommend the best type of bridge for your unique needs and goals.
Bridges help prevent adjacent teeth from shifting out of place, preserving your smile. Bridges can also improve your ability to speak and chew properly. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone begins to deteriorate. Replacing lost teeth with bridges can prevent bone deterioration and protect your remaining natural teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crowns and Bridges
- What is the difference between a dental crown and a dental bridge?
A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, and function. A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent healthy teeth or dental implants.
- How long do crowns and bridges last?
With proper care, crowns and bridges can last between 10 to 15 years or longer. Regular oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, can help extend their lifespan.
- Are crowns and bridges covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost for crowns and bridges, though coverage can vary. Our office can help you understand your insurance benefits and provide a cost estimate for your treatment.
- Does getting a crown or bridge hurt?
The procedure for placing crowns and bridges is typically pain-free, as the area is numbed with local anesthesia. After the procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort, which usually subsides within a few days.
- How do I care for crowns and bridges?
Caring for crowns and bridges is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly, and visit your dentist for routine check-ups to ensure that your crown or bridge stays in good condition. Avoid chewing on hard objects to prevent damage.
Both bridges and crowns support damaged teeth, restore chewing function, and improve the aesthetics of your smile. Visit Gentilly Family Dental, LLC, at 2610 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119, or call (504) 482-9919 for the best dental care tailored to your needs.