“You have a cavity” is a phrase that over 80% of Americans will hear at least once in their lifetime. What next? What solutions are available? Most often, a filling will be sufficient to get your teeth back to prime health. Although sometimes the damage (from decay, trauma, or wear) is too extensive for a simple tooth-colored filling. That is where the solution avenues of a crown, bridge, or implant need to be considered. In this blog, we will explain the differences between each.
Let’s Talk About Cavities
What is a cavity? It is the breakdown of the tooth’s surface matter due to the exposure of substances like sugar or plaque buildup due to improper hygiene practices. Anyone can get a cavity, although older adults have the highest chance of these, especially in circumstances where crowns, bridges, and implants are needed to correct.
Dental Crowns: Restoring Strength and Shape
A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that covers the entire damaged tooth. Crowns are important tools in dental care because they restore the shape and strength of a tooth after cavity decay has progressed more than a filling could repair. Dental crowns are also used to strengthen teeth after root canal procedures, as part of dental implant treatment, and more. The main purpose of getting a dental crown is to re-establish the strength of a tooth to ensure food is properly chewed and that pain is limited. At Hudec Dental, we create custom dental crowns for adults that are made to blend in organically with your natural teeth.
The Process of Getting a Dental Crown
- Initial Examination: To determine cavity location and severity.
- Impressions: An impression is taken to create your custom dental crown
- Temporary Crowns: A temporary crown will be placed over the tooth to protect it until your crown is ready. Usually, it takes 1-3 weeks for your crown to come in.
- Official Crown: After the removal of your temporary crown, your dentist will determine if your permanent crown is the proper fit and color for your natural teeth. If all is clear, your permanent crown will be placed over the tooth.
Dental Bridges: Bridging the Gap of Missing Teeth
A dental bridge is a solution that is used to replace a missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. Dental bridges are important to ensure that the remaining natural teeth do not shift. At Hudec Dental, we specialize in custom-made dental bridges in Ohio that are composed of two crowns and false teeth in between. It is crucial to know that sometimes dental bridges may be recommended by your dentist over a dental implant, depending on the condition of the surrounding teeth, the patient’s desired completion time, and insurance coverage.
The Process of Getting a Dental Bridge
- Initial Examination: The dentist numbs the area and examines areas in need of repair
- Impressions Taken: Precise impressions of the area are taken to create a custom bridge, and a temporary bridge is installed.
- Lab Fabrication: Dental technicians use impressions to create your custom bridge
- Fitting and Adjustment: The temporary bridge is removed, and the permanent bridge is placed.
- Final Cementation: After your dentist determines proper placement, final cementation is conducted.
Dental Implants: The Permanent, Stand-Alone Solution
Dental implants are permanently fixed and a highly effective solution for replacing missing teeth, often preferred over bridges or dentures for comfort and aesthetics. The procedure involves surgically placing a durable titanium post into the jawbone, where it acts as an artificial tooth root, providing long-term stability and preserving jawbone health. Once the implant fuses with the bone, it is restored with a natural-looking crown, making the replacement feel and function just like a natural tooth without affecting adjacent healthy teeth.
The Process of Getting a Dental Implant
- Planning and Assessment: Comprehensive exam and scanning (X-rays) to determine jawbone health and create a precise treatment plan.
- Surgical Placement: The titanium implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone to act as the new tooth root.
- Healing (Osseointegration): A crucial 3 to 6 month period where the jawbone fuses securely with the titanium post.
- Abutment Attachment: A connector piece (the abutment) is attached to the healed implant, extending through the gumline.
- Final Crown Fitting: A custom-made, natural-looking crown is cemented onto the abutment, completing the replacement tooth.
Finding the Right Solution for You
Choosing between a crown, bridge, or implant ultimately comes down to what will best protect your long-term oral health. Crowns are ideal for strengthening and restoring a damaged tooth, bridges help replace one or more missing teeth by using neighboring teeth for support, and implants offer the most durable, natural-feeling, stand-alone replacement option. Your dentist will consider factors like the extent of decay or damage, the condition of nearby teeth, your overall oral health, and your personal goals before recommending a treatment.
If you’re unsure which option is right for you, the next step is a professional evaluation. A consultation allows your dentist to examine your teeth, review X-rays, and discuss the solution that fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
At Hudec Dental, our skilled and compassionate team is here to guide you through each step and help you make an informed decision. Schedule a visit today to determine the best restorative treatment plan for your smile and take the first step toward feeling confident and comfortable again.
