Dental bridges are fixed a solution used in cosmetic dentistry for replacing missing teeth
. Dental bridges are only placed on healthy teeth. Only some teeth can be replaced with bridges. Assessment is the first step by a cosmetic dentist or a dentist who would be able to recommend the ideal treatment for you.
The majority of dental bridges are made of metal and porcelain. You dont see the metal as this is the sub structure and the porcelain is bonded to this to make them look like real teeth. Sometimes in cosmetic dentistry a dental bridge can be made of all porcelain, but the cosmetic dentist would be able to advise you which one is good for you.
Advantage of dental bridges:
-Fixed - they are not removable like a denture
-Aesthetic - improve the look of the mouth when teeth are missing
-Quick - the fastest way of replacing missing teeth
A crown protects a heavily filled tooth from fracture by preserving the remaining tooth structure. Sometimes a fracture line goes below the gum line and is nearly impossible to restore.
Advantages of dental crowns:
-Aesthetic - improving the appearance of a tooth
-Comfort - smooth, polished surfaces
-Health - less plaque retention due to smooth and accurate shape of the crown
Types of dental crowns:
-All porcelain crowns - nearly always used on anterior crowns as they look more like natural teeth
-Porcelain bonded to metal crowns - these can be made to look fairly natural and are used when a stronger front tooth is required, such as when there is a metal post underneath
-Gold crowns - usually used on back teeth as this makes a very strong crown
Normally two visits are required by the cosmetic dentist and the treatment is painless. The first (longer) visit involves preparation of the tooth or teeth, impression taking and fabrication of a temporary crown. The shade is also selected at this visit. For highly cosmetic results (e.g. a front crown or bridge) it is advisable for the patient to visit our dental laboratory for accurate colour matching. The crown is fitted approximately two weeks later in a shorter appointment.