What are Dental Crowns and Tooth Bridges?

Both crowns and most bridges are fixed prosthetic devices. Unlike removable teeth such as dentures, which you can take out and clean daily, crowns and bridges are cemented onto existing teeth or implants.

How do Crowns Work?

A crown is used to entirely cover or "cap" a damaged tooth. Besides strengthening a damaged tooth, a crown can be used to improve its appearance, shape or alignment. A crown can also be placed on top of an implant to provide a tooth-like shape and structure for function. Porcelain or ceramic crowns can be matched to the color of your natural teeth.

Your dentist may recommend a crown to:

• Replace a large filling when there isn't enough tooth remaining


• Protect a weak tooth from fracturing


• Restore a fractured tooth


• Attach a bridge


• Cover a dental implant


• Cover a discolored or poorly shaped tooth


• Cover a tooth that has had root canal treatment

How do Bridges Work?

A bridge may be recommended if you're missing one or more teeth. Gaps left by missing teeth eventually cause the remaining teeth to rotate or shift into the empty spaces, resulting in a bad bite. The imbalance caused by missing teeth can also lead to gum disease and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Top Oral Care Tips for BRIDGES & CROWNS

The most important step you can take to ensure the longevity of your crown is to practice good oral hygiene.

• Keep your gums and teeth healthy by brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and flossing daily
• See your dentist or hygienist regularly for checkups and professional cleaning
• To prevent damage to your new crown or bridge, avoid chewing hard foods, ice or other hard objects