Dental crowns and bridges are essential to restorative dentistry, addressing various dental concerns to enhance functionality and aesthetics.

Dental crowns, or caps, are custom-fitted covers placed over damaged or weakened teeth, restoring their strength, shape, and appearance. At Whole Life Dental, we have dental crowns crafted from materials like porcelain or metal alloys to mimic natural teeth.

Dental bridges, on the other hand, are prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth, or pontics, to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants.

The Benefits of Dental Crowns

Restoration of Tooth Structure

Dental crowns in Greenwood, SC, provide a robust solution for preserving and restoring the structure of a compromised tooth. By encapsulating the tooth, crowns offer protection against further damage and decay.

Improved Functionality

Dental crowns enhance a tooth's functionality by restoring its shape and strength. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with compromised teeth, allowing them to bite and chew confidently.

The Benefits of Dental Bridges

Restoration of Function

Dental bridges in Greenwood, SC, effectively restore the ability to bite and chew for individuals with missing teeth. This not only improves oral function but also promotes overall digestive health.

Preservation of Facial Structure

Tooth loss can lead to changes in facial structure, such as sagging or a sunken appearance. Dental bridges preserve facial contours by replacing missing teeth and supporting the surrounding tissues.

The Dental Crown and Bridge Procedure

The dentist in Greenwood, SC, conducts a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the condition of the affected teeth and discuss treatment options. Then, a treatment plan is developed if dental crowns or bridges are deemed suitable.

The treatment plan is implemented this way: the affected tooth is prepared for dental crowns by removing a portion of the outer enamel to accommodate the crown. Impressions are then taken to ensure a precise fit. In the case of dental bridges, the adjacent teeth that will support the bridge are also prepared. These impressions are then sent to a dental laboratory where they will be used as the basis for the fabrication of the restoration. While the permanent crown or bridge is fabricated, a temporary restoration is placed to protect the prepared tooth or teeth.

The impressions taken during the initial visit guide the fabrication of custom-fitted dental crowns or bridges. The chosen material is crafted to match the naturalteeth's color, shape, and size. Once the permanent crown or bridge is ready, the temporary restoration is removed, and the final restoration is carefully placed and adjusted for optimal fit and bite. Dental crowns are typically cemented onto the prepared tooth, creating a secure bond. The dental bridge is anchored using dental crowns on the adjacent natural teeth or dental implants.

These restorative solutions improve oral function and provide aesthetic benefits, seamlessly blending with natural teeth to create a harmonious and confident smile. For more information, visit Whole Life Dental at 301 Montague Ave, Greenwood, SC 29649, or call (864) 229-7092.