Smile problems? With options like crowns and bridges, your dentist can take your smile from so-so to extraordinary. Dr. Michael Teitelbaum
at Briarcliff Center for Esthetic Dentistry in Briarcliff Manor, NY, offers state-of-the-art dental crowns and bridges to their patients. Keep reading to find answers to your most frequently asked questions about crowns and bridges.
What is a dental crown?
Dental crowns are 'caps' that are designed to fit over your teeth so that they appear to be natural teeth. When the crown is cemented, it encases the entire visible portion of the tooth. The purpose of a crown is to strengthen a damaged tooth or improve the way its appearance, alignment, or shape.
How long do crowns last?
Permanent dental crowns are known for their great strength and durability. Dental crowns are tough like your teeth's structure. According to WebMD, a permanent dental crown can last up to 15 years. To achieve this goal, you will need to maintain a high level of oral hygiene and see your dentist at least twice a year.
What are the benefits of crowns?
Dental crowns are used to restore damaged teeth and prevent weakened teeth from deteriorating. Dental crowns can also improve the appearance of your teeth. Since they fit over the teeth, they can instantly correct misshapen teeth, crookedness, discoloration, fractures, chips, cracks, and more.
How do I care for my crown?
Your new dental crowns will require the same care as your natural teeth. Flossing daily and brushing twice a day will keep your dental crown clean and healthy. See your Briarcliff Manor dentist at least twice a year for checkups and professional dental cleanings. To prevent damage to your new dental crown avoid chewing hard foods, ice or other hard objects.
What is a dental bridge?
Dental bridges are commonly used to replace one or more missing teeth. A fixed dental bridge is made up of two dental crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a prosthetic tooth/teeth in between. Bridges are supported by dental implants or natural teeth.
What are the benefits of bridges?
A fixed dental bridge can improve the appearance of your smile. Fixed dental bridges look great and match natural teeth exceptionally well. A fixed dental bridge can also restore your ability to properly chew and speak and prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of place.
How long do bridges last?
Strong and stable, a dental bridge restores a lost tooth so that it looks and functions like a natural tooth. Dental bridges can last five to 15 years and even longer. With regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene, it's not unusual for the life span of a dental bridge to be over 10 years.
How do I care for my bridge?
It's important to keep your existing teeth strong and healthy as the success of a fixed dental bridge depends on the solid foundation offered by the adjacent teeth. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and using a mouth rinse every day helps prevent decay and gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. You should also avoid chewing on ice or other hard objects.
If you've ever wanted a beautiful smile, this is your chance! Call Briarcliff Center for Esthetic Dentistry at 914-941-2000 now to schedule an appointment in Briarcliff Manor, NY. We have helped thousands of people transform their smiles, giving them confidence and improving the overall quality of their lives. And we will do the same for you.