Both crowns and most bridges are fixed prosthetic devices. Unlike removable devices such as dentures, which you can take out and clean daily, crowns and bridges are cemented onto existing teeth or implants, and can only be removed by a dentist.
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. Other materials include gold and
metal alloys, acrylic and ceramic. These alloys are generally stronger than
porcelain and may be recommended for back teeth. Porcelain bonded to a metal
shell is often used because it is both strong and attractive.
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.
Crowns
Full porcelain fused to metal.
Full cast gold crown.
Teeth around the space are prepared.
The bridge is mounted and adjusted for fit and comfort.
The bridge is cemented into position.