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Facts About Dental Crowns & Dental Bridges

Losing teeth is common among aging adults. Teeth are lost because of tooth decay, gum disease, and trauma to the mouth. Usually, the dentist will advise you to replace missing teeth with a variety of treatments including dental crowns, dental bridges, dental implants, or dentures, depending on your oral health history.

Learn more about dental crowns and bridges in El Paso, TX

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are custom-made composite teeth that replace damaged natural teeth above the gum line, restoring teeth to their original shape and size. A dental crown preserves and strengthens the tooth structure for teeth that are too badly damaged for tooth filling. Dental crowns can work like dental fillings, strengthen a weakened tooth, and also enhance stained or broken teeth. They are used to improve the health, functionality, and appearance of teeth. 

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is a fixed dental prosthesis that bridges the gap between missing teeth by cementing to dental implants or original teeth on both sides of the empty space. Dental bridges replace one to multiple teeth that are missing. Unlike dental crowns which replace only one tooth at a time, dental bridges are used to replace a row of missing teeth.

Reasons For Getting Dental Crowns And Dental Bridges

You can get dental crowns or dental bridges for one or many of the following reasons:

  • Broken/fractured teeth
  • Cosmetic dental enhancement
  • Decayed or infected teeth
  • Fractured or lost fillings
  • Failing root canal
  • To fill the gap of missing teeth

Benefits of Dental Bridges Over Implants or Dentures

Here are some advantages to choosing a dental bridge over a denture or dental implants:

  • A dental bridge doesn’t require surgery. Unless you choose to receive an implant-supported bridge placed, your oral surgery will not be necessary to restore your smile. Traditional dental implants are quick and simple in-office procedures that can be completed in one visit and don’t require a long time to heal.
  • Bridges are more affordable than dental implants. Cost is something most people consider when it comes to cosmetic dentistry and dental restorations. Dental bridges are significantly more affordable because of the lack of surgery and less time needed for restoration than dental implants.
  • Dental bridges are more comfortable than dentures. Denture patients often complain about the discomfort of non-implant dentures moving around or falling out while eating or talking. Dental bridges are bonded to other teeth or implants, not just the gums.
  • Dental bridges are more realistic than dentures. Non-implant dentures can move around in the mouth which can be uncomfortable but also noticeable to others around them. Dental bridges look and feel more like natural teeth, so hardly anyone will know they aren’t real!

Preparing the Teeth for Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges

Our dentist will begin by numbing your mouth with a localized anesthetic. The dentist then prepares the tooth or teeth for the crown or bridge. The enamel of the teeth will then be reduced to properly fit the bridge or crown. For a crown, our dentist will prepare a single tooth. For a bridge, they will prepare the teeth on either side of the gap to hold the bridge in place.

After preparation, the dentist takes an impression of your teeth to send to the dental lab. The lab will then construct the bridge or crown based on the impression of your teeth. Our dentist will then place a temporary crown or bridge on the prepared teeth. This will protect the teeth while the laboratory makes your custom bridge or crown.

Do I Need a Dental Bridge or a Dental Crown?

Do you have one or more missing teeth, badly worn, or damaged teeth? To help improve the aesthetic of your smile, protect your teeth, and make chewing easier, you may be a good candidate for a dental crown or a bridge. With a thorough dental exam and consultation, our dentist will be able to go over the best dental treatment options for your specific oral health needs.

Benefits of Crowns and Bridges

  • Add Durability to a Damaged Tooth
  • Improve Chewing and Speaking
  • Improve Smile
  • Prevent Other Teeth From Shifting and/or Rotating out of Place
  • Replace One or More Missing Teeth

Schedule a Crown and Bridge Consultation Today!

Green Family Dental in East El Paso, TX provides a state-of-the-art dental office that offers exceptional general dental and specialty services guided by the empathy of a patient’s oral health needs and desires. Services range from dental crowns to veneers and teeth whitening procedures. For further information, questions, or to schedule an appointment, contact us at (915) 778-4681 or book an appointment in the menu above.