Crowns and Bridges

Providing Crowns and Bridges to Clients at Yeates Family Dental

Crowns and bridges are a standard way to restore the look and function of a client’s teeth. Whether clients have undergone a root canal and required a crown to protect the tooth following the procedure, or they need a bridge to help replace a missing tooth, our Skagit County dental clinic can provide you with everything you need to decide which solution is right for your needs.

What is a Dental Crown?

The crown is the part of the tooth that we see every day. It is the part of the tooth that lends to our beautiful smiles. When teeth become damaged or have undergone certain dental procedures, a crown can help restore the look of the tooth and provide a full set of functional teeth. Crowns are usually made of porcelain, but some clients prefer to have gold or a combination of porcelain and gold crowns. They all provide the same function but look different. Crowns are used as part of dental implants as well and are attached permanently to titanium rods that have been surgically implanted into the gums.

What is a Dental Bridge?

Bridges differ from crowns in many ways, but they are also a universal solution used in the dental community to restore the look of teeth. Bridges replace missing teeth. They have several components including a pontic, which is a false tooth, an abutment, which is the part of the bridge that attaches it to other teeth, and of course, the bridge itself, which holds a false tooth in place. Bridges quite literally “bridge the gap” in a client’s teeth.

What’s the Difference Between A Crown and a Bridge?

Crowns are typically used to cover an existing tooth. We strive to save original teeth from having to be removed, and a crown can help achieve that goal. Bridges, on the other hand, are used to replace teeth that have been removed, have fallen out on their own, or have never grown in. Some clients have been known to be missing teeth naturally, and are self-conscious about the way the gaps in their teeth look. Bridges can help reduce that self-consciousness by providing them with a full set of teeth. Crowns are a more permanent solution that bridges are; some bridges can be removed, depending on the type of bridge that is installed, and they can wear away the teeth surrounding them over time. While dental implants are the preferred choice for replacing missing teeth, some clients are not candidates for that procedure because of bone loss. We’ll walk you through all your options during a consultation in our Skagit County office.

What are the Benefits of Crowns and Bridges?

While different, crowns and bridges provide much of the same benefits. These include:

  • Creating the look of a full set of teeth
  • Improving speaking and chewing
  • Reducing the risk of bone loss or tooth movement
  • Reducing the risk of tooth decay, infection and bacteria getting into hard to reach places
  • Improving the integrity of surrounding teeth
  • Improving self-esteem for clients

How Do You Care for Crowns and Bridges?

Once your new crowns or bridges are placed in your mouth, you can go about your routine treating them like your natural teeth. They are strong and sturdy and when placed correctly, can last a long time. Most people will need replacements at some point in their lives, but when clients take good care of their crowns and bridges, they can have them for many years. Crowns and bridges can become worn over time, and if you experience any pain or discomfort associated with your dental appliances, it’s important to reach out to our office as soon as possible to prevent further damage or pain from occurring. Regular brushing and flossing are necessary to keep your dental appliances looking good, and performing they way expect them to for many years.

Are Crowns or Bridges Right for You?

If you think you might benefit from having a crown placed over an existing tooth, or if you are interested in learning more about how a bridge can help complete the look of your teeth, contact our office today. We’ll walk you through the steps of getting crowns or bridges and make sure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision about your oral health. We’ll examine your teeth and make recommendations for a solution that is right for you, and before you know it, you’ll have a great looking smile. Call us to book an appointment today.