Crowns and bridges are two of the most common restorative dental treatments we offer at So Young Park, DDS. A crown is a dental restoration that completely covers the outside of a tooth. It can strengthen a weak tooth, improve the appearance of an imperfect tooth, or be used to support a dental bridge. A bridge is made up of one or more false teeth, known as pontics, and crowns placed on the adjacent natural teeth for support. 

When Are Dental Crowns Used?

A dental crown can fix teeth that are too broken or decayed to be restored with a filling or if a tooth is discolored and cannot be brightened with whitening treatments. A crown is designed to cover the entire tooth above the surface of the gums. 

While crowns can be made from many different materials, porcelain is the most popular choice for aesthetic and functional reasons. Porcelain is solid and life-like in appearance. It is stain resistant and mimics the translucent appearance of enamel. For these reasons, many dentists use porcelain to craft dental crowns. 

Although porcelain is solid and durable, it is not indestructible. Therefore, practicing good oral hygiene habits at home and seeing your general dentist twice a year for routine examinations and cleanings is essential. This will help protect your crown against potential damage and your mouth from tooth decay or gum disease. 

In addition to restoring and improving the function of damaged teeth, crowns can also help patients feel more confident about their smiles.

Why Choose a Dental Bridge?

A bridge is a tooth replacement option that spans the gap left by two or more missing teeth. Bridges are made of two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and false teeth or “pontics” in between. The crowns are bonded to the natural teeth surrounding the gap. 

Traditional bridges are anchored to the surrounding teeth by crowning those teeth; implant-supported bridges are attached to dental implants placed in the jawbone. Once the bridge is ready, your dentist will attach it using cement to ensure it stays in place. 

Dental bridges create a natural-looking smile and prevent neighboring healthy teeth from drifting out of position. The bridge is anchored in place by the natural teeth on either side. This prevents further tooth loss and preserves the jaw and facial bone structure. Bridges also make it easier to chew and speak normally. Patients often choose dental bridges because they are affordable and provide permanent results.

If you need crowns or bridges, visit So Young Park, DDS at 1660 Westwood Dr Ste G, San Jose, CA 95125, or call (408) 264-1917 to schedule an appointment with our dentist today. Our team will be happy to go over the treatment options available to you!