Crowns and Bridges
Is a worn tooth causing trouble when you eat or bite down? Do you have a tooth with damage or decay? Whether you keep your natural tooth or have it pulled, a dental restoration can help ensure you have a tooth that functions without issue. At Hilldale Dental, our dental team offers crowns and bridges in Madison, WI, to restore teeth.
What Are Crowns?
These are coverings made of resin, metal, porcelain, or other materials that go on decayed, worn, or damaged teeth. They serve as protective caps for these teeth, keeping them safe from bacteria and further damage. Crowns on front teeth can restore their appearance for a better smile. Crowns on other teeth can make them functional again, allowing you to eat without pain or difficulty.
What Are Bridges?
These dental structures are used when you have a tooth missing. They typically include an artificial tooth with crowns on your natural teeth on either side. The whole structure acts as a bridge that stays in place and holds your replacement tooth securely. A dental bridge may be an option if you have a tooth missing or you need to have one pulled due to advanced decay or bad injuries.
Types of Dental Crowns
These tooth coverings are made of different materials, including:
- Gold or other metals
- Pressed ceramic or all ceramic
- Resin
- Porcelain
- Porcelain and metal
Each type has pros and cons. Metal is among the more durable materials for crowns, but it’s also highly visible. Resin is the most cost-effective option, but not as durable. Ceramic and porcelain are tooth-colored options that blend with the remaining portion of your tooth. We can help you choose the right crown type depending on different factors, like your budget and tooth location.
Types of Dental Bridges
These structures are available in different types to fit various situations:
- Traditional bridge with a replacement tooth and crowned teeth on both sides
- Cantilever bridge with an artificial tooth and a crowned tooth on one side
- Maryland bridge with metallic wings instead of crowns for front teeth
- Implant-supported bridge with dental implants instead of crowns
Our dentist can decide which bridge type is most suitable for your teeth based on factors, such as where the affected tooth is.
What to Expect When Getting a Crown or Bridge
The process depends in part on what type of crown or bridge you get. In many cases, though, your teeth need to be prepared. We remove a small amount of enamel to get teeth ready for crowns. If you’re getting a bridge with implants, we’ll need to place the implant posts in your jawbone and wait for them to fuse before finishing up the process.
How Long Do Crowns and Bridges Last For?
Some dental bridges and crowns can last for over a decade. This depends on their material and other factors, such as how well you take care of them. Proper care and regular dental visits can help them last longer!
Schedule an Appointment for a Crown or Bridge!
Does a damaged tooth need a dental restoration? We can help! At Hilldale Dental, we offer dental crowns and bridges in Madison, WI. Our dentist can determine which type works best for making your tooth functional and improving its appearance!
