Missing teeth do more than just upset the balance of your smile. Sagging facial muscles due to bone atrophy cause premature aging crowns and bridgesand potential issues with self-esteem. Crowns and bridges can help you repair your smile to prevent tooth loss and replace already missing teeth. Learn more about these dental restorations with help from your Honolulu, HI dentist, Dr. Stephanie Wong.

What are crowns and bridges? 
Crowns and bridges are dental restorations usually made from porcelain. A dental laboratory customizes crowns and bridges specifically for you based on a mold of your teeth. Crowns are a cap-like structure which fits over the tooth to stabilize and strengthen it. A bridge is made up of 3 prosthetic teeth in a row, with crowns on the outer two teeth. The crowns anchor the bridge into place using the healthy teeth surrounding the gap to replace the missing tooth.

When are crowns and bridges needed? 
A crown helps strengthen a weakened tooth. Some situations where crowns are necessary include:

  • to stabilize a broken tooth
  • to strengthen a tooth with a large filling
  • to give new life to a worn tooth
  • to improve the appearance of a misshaped or heavily stained tooth
  • to cover a dental implant

Those with a gap surrounded by healthy teeth benefit from a bridge. The teeth on both sides of the gap must be strong enough to support the restoration.

Are crowns or bridges right for me? 
Anyone considering a crown or bridge should be in good general dental health and maintain an excellent at-home oral care routine. Brushing twice a day and flossing once keeps your natural teeth and dental restorations alike healthy and clean. Additionally, seeing your Honolulu dentist at least twice a year for an examination and cleaning allows them to find and treat any problems early and prevents tooth decay and gum disease.

For more information on crowns and bridges, please contact Dr. Stephanie Wong, your Honolulu, HI dentist. Call (808) 732-3072 to speak with an associate about scheduling your appointment today!

Questions or Comments?

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