Dental crowns and bridges are two restorations that might be used during a full mouth reconstruction with dental implants. Full mouth reconstructions use multiple dental treatments to address problems with the teeth and to restore the bite. As a bonus, patients are likely to end up with a more attractive smile.
A full mouth reconstruction with implants
A dental implant is a metal rod that is put inside a person's jaw. It serves as an artificial tooth root and often replaces the one that is lost when a tooth comes out. The installation of dental implants requires minor oral surgery. After the implant is surgically placed, it needs to fuse with bone tissues around until it becomes a part of them. This process is called osseointegration and it can take up to 6 months to be completed.
A restoration is then placed on the implant to finish up the process, which often completes the full mouth reconstruction. Dentures, crowns or bridges can be attached to implants to act as the artificial tooth or teeth. The restoration the dentist decides to go with depends on the patient's unique dental issues.
Dental crowns
Dental crowns are often attached to dental implants when the patient is only missing one or a few teeth. They are popular restorations used in full mouth reconstructions to cover up damaged teeth. These restorations are strong enough to withstand bite forces and they can be color-matched with the patient's teeth so that they look real.
Dental crowns can last up to 25 years with good oral hygiene. They do not require any specialized cleaning, which is advantageous for patients.
Bridges
Dental bridges are used to close up gaps between teeth. The bridge is anchored down on the two teeth closest to the gap. Bridges are often called abutment teeth and they are typically fitted with crowns to give them additional stability. The bridge comes with artificial teeth, called pontics that look like real teeth. The artificial teeth can also be made from alloys of precious metals like gold and silver depending on the patient's desire.
A dental bridge is typically used when a person has four or more missing teeth right next to each other. Oftentimes, a dentist will recommend using dental implants with bridges to complete the full mouth reconstruction. Implants can anchor the bridge in place, which gives additional support that may not be present otherwise.
Which is best?
When trying to decide between dental crowns and bridges to accompany dental implants during a full mouth reconstruction, it is best to consult a dentist. Ultimately, crowns are better for one or two missing teeth, while bridges are more beneficial for multiple missing teeth or big spaces.
Replace missing teeth
Want to learn more about bridges and crowns, and how they can be used with dental implants during a full mouth reconstruction? Working with a general dentist is the best place to start as they can provide advantages and disadvantages, which may vary per patient. Reach out today to get started or to learn more!
Request an appointment here: https://www.emersondental.com or call Emerson Dental Associates at (201) 620-9998 for an appointment in our Emerson office.
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