Find Out How Crowns And Bridges Can Help Restore Your Smile

Whether you have a missing tooth or are unhappy with the way one of your teeth looks, crowns and bridges can restore your smile. Dr. Yati Yadav--your Glendale and Peoria, AZ, dentist at Your Family Dentist, PC--explains how these dental restorations can help you feel better about your smile.

What are crowns and bridges?

Crowns slip over a tooth, completely encasing it. They're often made of porcelain, porcelain fused-to-metal, ceramic, resin, gold or other metal alloys. Bridges consist of one or more false teeth, called pontics, supported by crowns on either end. They're usually made of porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal.

Why do I need a crown or bridge?

Bridges are used to replace a missing tooth or teeth, while crowns serve several purposes, including:

• Stabilizing Teeth: If a tooth is cracked or fractured, a crown protects it from further damage. Crowns are also used to strengthen teeth weakened by root canal treatment or large fillings.
• Hiding Flaws: Crowns conceal chips, oddly shaped teeth, short and crooked teeth and teeth that are oddly shaped.
• Concealing Discolorations: When one tooth is discolored due to tetracycline use or a large filling, it can detract from your smile. Crowns help the tooth blend in with the surrounding teeth.

How do I receive crowns and bridges in Glendale and Peoria?

The teeth that will receive crowns must be filed slightly to accommodate your new crown. If you're getting a bridge, the teeth on either side of the gap will be filed. After your dentist reduces the size of the tooth or teeth, he'll make an impression of your teeth, which will be used to create your crown or bridge.

You'll wear a temporary bridge or crowns while you wait. In a week or two, you'll return to your dentist's office and be fitted with your new restoration. Your dentist will check the fit and make any adjustments before attaching the crown or bridge with dental cement.

Does a crown or bridge sound like a good option for your dental problem? Call Dr. Yati Yadav--your Glendale and Peoria, AZ, dentist at Your Family Dentist, PC--at (623) 878-3300 to schedule an appointment. Improve your smile with crowns and bridges!