Dental Crowns and Bridges by Jean Taylor

Dental crowns and bridges help to restore badly decayed or damaged teeth and serve a cosmetic purpose.

Our teeth perform a very important function many times a day, every day. They get damaged and worn as time goes by, no matter how well you take care of them. Then there are accidents that you cannot foresee, causing injury to your teeth or your jawbone. The only solution is to visit your dentist seeking restorative treatment, so that both the appearance and the function of the teeth are maintained over the long term.

Most of us are familiar with dental fillings. Crowns and bridges are also becoming more common, as people become more appearance conscious. Dental crowns or caps are fitted on to the top part of a tooth (above the gum line) to replace a damaged or decayed portion. Unlike fillings, they act as the complete cover of the tooth, so that once the crown is placed, you will not see any part of your original tooth. This part that lies below the gum line supportsthe crown. In some cases, even that part may have been replaced with a dental implant, a rooting device that anchors and supports crowns.

Your Frederick dentist will usually recommend a dental crown for the following reasons:

1. To restore a badly decayed or damaged tooth
2. To strengthen a weak tooth
3. To enhance the appearance of a tooth (Cosmetic purpose)

Crowns are commonly made out of ceramic. For instance, porcelain and zirconia are popular choices as they provide a natural restoration. They mimic the color and texture of enamel, the outermost layer of teeth. They are also strong and able to withstand physical stress. Some dentists also use metal restorations such as gold and metal alloys. Resin is another natural looking material for crowns. A dentist may choose to combine a few materials in order to provide more strength to the crown. The patient can give his ideas as to the preferred material but the ultimate decision lies with the dentist because certain materialsare better for front teeth whereas others are better for back teeth.

A dental crown is bonded or cemented on to the tooth. Several crowns together are called a dental bridge. An example of when a bridge comes in handy is a gap existing between teeth. The two surrounding teeth will be fitted with crowns on either side and to these will attach the crown for the missing tooth, supported by a dental implant.

About the Author

Family Smile Center is a proud and professional dental office serving the city of Frederick, MD. The dental professionals at this top notch facility offer a range of dental services. As their name suggests, this dental office is oriented to solving the dental needs of families in the gentlest manner. Visit www.familysmilecenter.biz to learn more. Read more on: Building Strong Teeth is a Team Effort, Read: Maryland Orthodontist.