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One or more missing teeth, or even a damaged tooth, can significantly affect the appearance and functionality of your smile. Missing teeth can cause a change in your bite, shifting of the teeth, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, speech impediments, an increased risk for periodontal disease and a greater chance for developing tooth decay. When tooth loss or damage occurs, what are your options to restore your smile? If a tooth damaged, a dental crown is typically used to preserve the functionality of your teeth. Dental bridges on the other hand, like implants, are used to replace missing teeth by filling the gap and are composed of up to two dental crowns for the teeth on either side. Crowns Cover Damaged Teeth If your tooth decay or dental damage is too extensive for veneers, direct composite bonding or other conservative treatments are not viable treatment options; your dentist may consult you about dental crowns. Whether the dental crowns are used to restore a damaged tooth or to create a lifelike tooth replacement for an implant, crowns can be fabricated in your dentist's office for a one visit restoration. Dental crowns are synthetic caps, usually made of porcelain, placed on the top of a tooth. They are a restoration that covers a tooth to restore it to its normal shape and size, which strengthens and improves the appearance of your damaged tooth. When your tooth is broken down and fillings are unable to solve your problem, crowns are necessary in order to restore function to your tooth. With proper care, a good quality crown can last up to eight years or longer. After your crowns are placed, it is important to maintain proper oral hygiene. Be sure to floss in the area of the crown to avoid excess plaque or collection of debris around the restoration. Certain behaviors, such as jaw clenching or bruxism significantly shorten the life of a crown. Even more so, eating brittle foods, or chewing on ice and hard candy can compromise the adhesion of the crown, or even damage the crown. Bridges Eliminate Gaps Left by Missing Teeth Bridges are natural-looking dental appliances that can replace a section of your missing teeth. Since they are custom-made, bridges are not noticeable and can restore the natural contour of teeth, in addition to the proper bite relationship between upper and lower teeth. Sometimes referred to as fixed partial dentures, bridges are permanent and bonded to existing teeth or implants. Some bridges are removable and can be cleaned, while others need to be removed by your dentist. Porcelain, gold alloys, or a combination of materials are typically used to make bridge appliances. Additionally, appliances called implant bridges are attached to an area below the gum tissue, or bone, to replace missing teeth. If you have damaged or missing teeth, it is recommended that you visit your Grosse Pointe cosmetic dentists for further consultation on the best procedure for restoration. Dental crowns and bridges are not for everyone, but your Grosse Pointe dentist can help you find a treatment plan for an improved smile.
Dr. Mary Sue Stonisch of Faircourt Dental Smile Enhancement Studio is a leading dentist in Grosse Pointe. Providing the best cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry that the Grosse Pointe area has to offer, Dr. Stonisch is qualified to handle any dental need for patients of every age including Pointe saliva testing, implants and whitening.
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