Dental Crowns and Bridges: Restorative
Solutions by Afflux Dentistry Book Appointment

At Afflux Dentistry, we are committed to providing high-quality dental care that restores both the functionality and beauty of your smile. Dental crowns and bridges are two of the most effective solutions for addressing damaged or missing teeth. These restorative options not only improve oral health but also enhance your confidence by giving you a natural-looking smile. Explore everything you need to know about dental crowns and bridges, how they work, and why we should be your trusted provider.

Dental Crowns

A dental crown, also known as a tooth cap, is a permanent restoration that covers a damaged or decayed tooth entirely. It strengthens and protects the tooth while maintaining a natural appearance. Dental crowns are an ideal solution for patients with:

  • Cracked or broken teeth.
  • Extensive tooth decay.
  • Teeth weakened after root canal treatment.
  • Worn-down teeth from grinding.
  • Desire to improve the aesthetic appearance of a tooth.

At Afflux Dentistry, we specialize in crafting dental crowns in Mississauga that look and feel like your natural teeth, ensuring durability and long-lasting results.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are used to fill gaps left by one or more missing teeth. They consist of false teeth (pontics) that are anchored by dental crowns on the adjacent teeth or dental implants. A bridge restores your ability to chew and speak and prevents the remaining teeth from shifting out of place.

Bridges are custom-made to match your smile, making them an excellent choice for dental crown replacement and restoring a natural look.

Key Benefits of Dental Crowns

Restore Strength and Functionality:

Dental crowns protect damaged or weakened teeth by covering them entirely, restoring their ability to bite and chew. This ensures that the tooth regains its natural function and is shielded from further harm or decay.

Enhance Aesthetic Appeal:

Crafted to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, crowns offer an ideal solution to cover discoloration, cracks, or imperfections. Their realistic appearance enhances your smile, giving you the confidence to show your teeth without hesitation.

Long-Lasting Results:

With proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, crowns can last a decade or more. Their durability ensures that you enjoy reliable restoration for years, making them a cost-effective and long-term solution.

Support Other Dental Treatments:

Crowns complement other treatments, such as dental implants and bridges, by serving as anchors or protective caps. They strengthen and complete restorative dental procedures, improving the overall stability and effectiveness of your dental restoration.

Key Benefits of Dental Bridges

Fills Gaps:

Bridges effectively replace missing teeth, restoring the appearance and functionality of your smile. By filling gaps, they prevent embarrassment, boost confidence, and create a harmonious dental structure for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Prevents Shifting:

Without a bridge, surrounding teeth can shift into the gap, leading to misalignment and bite problems. A bridge stabilizes your dental structure, ensuring adjacent teeth stay in their proper positions for better oral health and function.

Improves Oral Health:

Replacing missing teeth with a bridge or a tooth crown replacement with a bridge makes chewing and speaking easier and more natural. By filling the gap, a bridge helps distribute bite forces evenly, improving your overall oral health and preventing unnecessary strain on adjacent teeth.

Durable Solution:

Dental bridges are built to withstand daily wear and tear, providing a reliable dental crown replacement or a replacement for missing teeth. With regular care and maintenance, bridges can offer a durable and lasting solution that supports your smile for many years.

Types of Dental Crowns

Porcelain Crowns:

Porcelain crowns are designed for front teeth, offering a highly aesthetic solution. Their translucency closely mimics natural enamel, making them an excellent choice for a flawless, natural-looking smile.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns:

PFM crowns combine a metal core's strength with porcelain's natural appearance. They are durable and aesthetically pleasing, making them a versatile option for restoring various teeth.

Ceramic Crowns:

Ceramic crowns are durable and resistant to stains, making them suitable for visible teeth. They maintain a natural look while offering reliable strength for everyday chewing and speaking needs.

Customized Recommendations:

Our experts assess your specific dental needs and preferences to recommend the best crown material, ensuring optimal functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal for your smile.

Metal Crowns:

Metal crowns, often crafted from gold or alloys, are ideal for molars due to their superior strength and longevity. They withstand heavy chewing forces, ensuring long-lasting protection for back teeth.

Zirconia Crowns:

Zirconia crowns are renowned for their exceptional strength and durability. They can withstand significant biting and chewing forces, making them suitable for both front and back teeth. Additionally, their translucent appearance can be customized to mimic natural teeth, combining aesthetics with resilience.

Who Needs Dental Crowns and Bridges?

When to Consider a Dental Crown

You may need a dental crown if you have:

  1. A tooth that has undergone a root canal and needs protection.
  2. A large filling that compromises the tooth structure.
  3. A fractured, worn, or discolored tooth.
  4. A dental implant that requires a cap.

When to Consider a Dental Bridge

Dental bridges are ideal for individuals who:

  1. Have one or more missing teeth.
  2. Require a tooth crown replacement.
  3. Want to restore chewing and speaking ability..
  4. Seek to maintain facial structure and jaw alignment.
  5. Prefer a non-removable solution compared to dentures.

How to Apply for IFHP Coverage

  • Initial Consultation: During the consultation, we examine your tooth, discuss treatment goals, and determine if a dental crown is the right solution to restore your tooth’s structure and appearance.
  • Tooth Preparation: The damaged tooth is carefully reshaped by removing a small portion of its enamel to ensure the crown fits perfectly and comfortably without altering your bite.
  • Impressions: Detailed molds or digital impressions of your prepared tooth are taken. These are used to design a custom crown that matches your natural teeth in shape and size.
  • Temporary Crown Placement: A temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth to protect it while your permanent crown is being fabricated, ensuring functionality and comfort during the interim.
  • Final Placement: Once your permanent crown is ready, it is bonded securely in place with dental cement. The dentist ensures a perfect fit, alignment, and bite adjustment for optimal comfort.

Procedure for Dental Bridges

  • Assessment and Planning: A thorough evaluation, including X-rays, helps determine the most suitable type of bridge for your dental needs, ensuring a functional and aesthetic restoration.
  • Tooth Preparation: The teeth adjacent to the gap are reshaped to anchor the bridge. This preparation ensures the crowns that support the bridge fit snugly and securely.
  • Impressions and Temporary Bridge: Precise molds or digital impressions are taken to create a custom bridge. A temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth while the permanent bridge is crafted.
  • Permanent Bridge Placement: Once your custom bridge is ready, it is fitted and adjusted for comfort and function. It is then permanently cemented, restoring your smile and bite effectively.
  • Follow-Up and Care Instructions: After placement, your dentist will provide guidance on caring for your bridge, including proper oral hygiene practices and periodic checkups to ensure long-term success and comfort.

Caring for Your Crowns and Bridges

Brush Twice Daily with Non-Abrasive Toothpaste

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean your crowns and bridges gently. This prevents scratches on the restoration and maintains both your natural teeth and restorations in optimal condition.

Avoid Chewing Hard Foods Like Ice or Nuts Directly on the Restoration

Protect your crowns and bridges by avoiding hard foods, such as ice, nuts, or hard candies, which can chip or crack the restoration. Opt for softer alternatives to preserve their integrity.

Floss Around the Restoration to Prevent Plaque Buildup

Flossing daily, especially around the base of your crowns and bridges, is essential to remove plaque. Tools like floss threaders or water flossers help clean hard-to-reach areas and ensure healthy gums.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly for Professional Cleanings and Checkups

Routine dental visits allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your crowns and bridges. Professional cleanings and exams ensure early detection of issues, prolonging the life of your restorations.

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Why Choose Afflux Dentistry?

At Afflux Dentistry, we pride ourselves on delivering personalized care with precision and comfort. Our team uses state-of-the-art technology to design crowns and bridges that fit perfectly and provide a natural appearance. From consultation to aftercare, we ensure you receive exceptional treatment for dental crowns in Mississauga.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Restore your smile and confidence with dental crowns and bridges at Afflux Dentistry. Whether you need a dental crown replacement or a customized dental bridge, our team is here to help. Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about our services.

Book An Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the lifespan of a dental crown?

A dental crown can last 10–15 years or more with good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and avoiding habits like teeth grinding or biting hard objects, which can damage the crown.

Are dental bridges removable?

No, dental bridges are designed to be permanently fixed to adjacent teeth or dental implants. Only a dentist can remove them if necessary, ensuring stability and durability over time.

Does getting a crown or bridge hurt?

The procedure is pain-free as it’s done under local anesthesia. While you may feel mild discomfort afterward, it is temporary and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How do I clean under a dental bridge?

Cleaning under a bridge requires floss threaders or water flossers to remove trapped food and plaque effectively. Proper cleaning keeps the surrounding teeth and gums healthy and prevents decay.

Can a dental crown be replaced?

Yes, dental crowns can be replaced if they become loose, cracked, or worn out. Dental crown eplacement ensures continued protection and function for the underlying tooth structure.

Are crowns and bridges covered by insurance?

Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of crowns and bridges as restorative treatments. It’s best to review your specific policy or consult your provider for details.

Can I normally eat with a crown or bridge?

Yes, after the crown or bridge is securely in place, you can eat and chew normally. Avoid hard or sticky foods initially to allow the restoration to settle comfortably.

How long does it take to get a dental bridge?

Getting a dental bridge usually requires two appointments spaced a few weeks apart. The first visit includes preparation and impressions, and the second involves placing the permanent bridge.