CROWN & BRIDGE
Over the years, there have been numerous materials used to fabricate crowns and bridges. For many years, the standard materials were gold, and the white crowns were PFM (porcelain fused to metal). To overcome shortcomings in esthetics, all-ceramic and zirconia crowns became increasingly popular, and the materials continued to improve. Presently, the majority of crowns and bridges fabricated in North America are some form of zirconia with or without porcelain layering.
Older PFM-style crowns are recognizable by the sometimes visible metal collar at the base. They may also have a milkier appearance and often stand out in photos. It is always a challenge to match a crown to someone’s natural teeth, but the newer generation crowns look significantly better than the crown options that were the standard of practice just 5-10 years ago.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A fixed bridge replaces 1 or more missing natural teeth.
It cannot be removed (except by your dentist). It is cemented into place and is firmly attached to the natural teeth that are next to the space. These teeth are called the abutment teeth.
Crowns are placed on the abutment teeth to provide support for the fixed bridge. The pontic, or the artificial tooth, is that part of the bridge that replaces the lost tooth. The pontic is fused to the abutment teeth, making one complete unit!
How Many Appointments Are Needed?
The dental bridge procedure can be completed in only 2 office visits.
What Is the Bridge Made Of?
Replacement teeth are made of either ceramic or porcelain fused to metal. The type of material will be chosen based on the patient's needs and goals, and also the location of the missing tooth. Ceramic replacement teeth are more ideally suited to replace missing front teeth, whereas replacement teeth made of porcelain and metal are better options for replacing teeth in the back of the mouth.
Ask your dentist at your next visit to see what tooth replacement option is best for you. We can place dental bridges to give you a full set of natural-looking teeth and help transform your smile.
Visit our implant page and find out about other tooth replacement options at Tyler Dental Artz.
