Teeth Crown & Bridges FAQs
in Gulfport, Biloxi & Pascagoula, MississippiWho are candidates for teeth crowns & bridges?
If you
- grind your teeth,
- have breaks or cracks in your teeth,
- have large fillings,
- have tooth decay,
or suffer other damage or decay to an individual tooth, you may be a candidate for a teeth crown.
If you have a missing tooth or teeth, you may be a candidate for a tooth bridge.
Dr. Elenbaas will need to consult with you about your best treatment options, because sometimes these problems may be solved with other treatments like porcelain fillings or implant dentistry.
How is the color for my crown and/or bridge determined?
The color for your crown and/or bridge is determined by the color of your teeth surrounding where your crown and/or bridge will be placed. Typically your front teeth are the whitest, your eye teeth are the darkest, and your molars fall somewhere in between. You may choose to have all your teeth whitened (see tooth whitening) before getting your crown and/or bridge so that your crown and/or bridge will be the optimal shade of whiteness while matching the rest of your mouth.
What is the difference between crowns & bridges and dental implants?
The difference between crowns & bridges and dental implants is basically that teeth crowns are prosthetics which fit over your actual tooth structure and bridges are false teeth suspended between two crowns forming a bridge. Dental implants are part of implant dentistry in which your false tooth is implanted directly into your jaw bone. You need to consult with an experienced dentist like Dr. Elenbaas at Beach View Dental to determine which treatment option is best for you.
What is the difference between crowns & bridges and dentures & partials?
The major difference between crowns & bridges and dentures & partials, is that crowns & bridges are "fixed" dentistry, which means they are permanently affixed to your other teeth with dental cement. Dentures and partials, on the other hand, are removable false teeth which you can take out and care for separately. Crowns & bridges need to be cared for the same way you care for your existing teeth-by brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly.
How long will my new crown and/or bridge last?
Your new crown and/or bridge can last for over ten to 15 years. All you need to do is care for your new crown and/or bridge by brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly. Keep in mind that even though they are virtually indistinguishable form your real teeth, your crown and/or bridge can be chipped or damaged by anything that can damage your real teeth. So with proper care, you can expect your new crown and/or tooth bridge to last for many years to come!
If you would like to learn more about reconstructive dentistry in general, or crowns & bridges in particular, please contact us today. We are happy to serve patients throughout the Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula, Mississippi area.