What are crowns, bridges and veneers?
Crowns, bridges and veneers are fixed prosthetic devices. They are used to repair different dental problems, concerning the functionality and the aesthetics of the teeth.
Crowns
A crown can be used when the tooth is fractured, damaged or weakened in some way, Usually that tooth will be discolored as well. 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. Crowns can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. Most often are made from porcelain bonded to a metal shell. Thus they are both strong and attractive.
Bridges
A bridge is used to replace a missing tooth or teeth.Gaps left by missing teeth make chewing harder, if not impossible, eventually cause the remaining teeth to rotate or shift. Bridges are cemented to the natural teeth or implants surrounding the empty space. These teeth, called abutments, serve as anchors for the bridge. A replacement tooth, called a pontic, is attached to the crowns that cover the abutments.
Veneers
Veneers are ultra-thin shells of ceramic (porcelain) or a composite resin material, which are bonded to the front of teeth. This procedure requires little or no anesthesia and can be the ideal choice for improving the appearance of the front teeth. Veneers are an excellent alternative to crowns in many situations. They provide a much more conservative approach to changing a tooth’s color, size or shape. Veneers are placed to mask discolorations, to brighten teeth and to improve a smile.
