Crowns and Bridges
Crown, in simple terms is a cap placed over a single tooth to aid in chewing. This is commonly advised following root canal therapy. A crown is also advised if there is more space between two teeth due a carious tooth, which cannot be closed with a filling. Before the placement of a crown, the tooth needs to be trimmed in order to create space for the crown. Once ready, the crown covers the entire space created for it and mimics the natural tooth. The crown can be made of different types of materials such as acrylic (usually used as a temporary crown), chrome-cobalt, porcelain and gold.

A missing tooth is generally replaced by placing a crown each on the teeth ahead and behind the missing tooth. A structure that resembles the tooth, known as pontic and is in turn attached to the two crowns on the adjacent teeth. Such an assembly is referred to as a bridge. A bridge can be used to replace one to several missing teeth. The dentist will assess the teeth that act as a support for the bridge before placing it.Implants

Any foreign body that is placed within the body tissues can be called an implant. In dentistry implants are commonly used to replace a missing single tooth or multiple teeth. The implants used are small screws made of titanium which are compatible with the body and do not generally result in any abnormal reactions. This however needs an elaborate assessment of the bone durability and condition of the gums. Implants are also used as a support for complete dentures. The advantage of an implant is that it nearly mimics the root as in a natural tooth. The need of grinding the adjacent teeth in case of a bridge is also nullified. The placement of the screw is a minor surgical procedure, which is done under local anesthesia by a dental surgeon who specialises in that field.

Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: December 12,2008