Other forms of Cosmetic Dentistry are Veneers, Crowns and Bridges. Depending on your dental issues, will dictate the most appropriate form of treatment. Chat with the professionals, and we can guide you through your treatment programme. You might be wondering what the difference is between veneers, crowns and bridges? Read on to find out more.
Dental Veneers
What Is A Dental Veneer?
It’s actually made of very thin shells of porcelain or ceramic, custom made to suit your teeth and is directly bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth. When they’re in position, veneers take on the appearance of just a better version of your natural teeth and because of this, patients prefer veneers as they’re almost undetectable.
Veneers are often used to solve issues such as chips, worn down teeth, discolouration, to close gaps or even to align uneven or irregular shaped teeth.
What Are The Downsides Of Veneers?
Contrary to popular belief, veneers do not ruin or damage your natural teeth. They are an irreversible procedure though, as the dentist will need to remove a thin layer of enamel before placing the veneer. They’re not considered a permanent procedure, so do bear in mind that at some point, even though they can last decades if taken care of properly, they may need replacing.
Crowns
What Is A Crown?
A cap which is used to protect, cover and restore a partially or entirely damaged tooth. This is called a dental crown, sometimes used following a root canal. Usually used when a filling won’t solve the problem. Crowns can mimic the look and feel of a natural tooth and do the same job, as long as they’re looked after of course.
Made from various materials, such as ceramics, metal, even gold, a porcelain or ceramic crown is potentially the best choice if you’re looking to achieve natural-looking teeth. However, if the crown is to replace a back tooth, then metal or gold might be preferable, as they’re often stronger.
How Long Do Crowns Last?
Depending on the placement of a crown, will depend on how long it will last for. Some crowns can last a lifetime, but equally, you may have a crown that cracks and needs replacing. As you would with your original teeth, it’s vital to look after your crowns and clean and floss them as you would a normal tooth. Otherwise, plaque can build up around the crown and sometimes cause bad breath.
Bridges
A bridge is used as a fix for a replacement tooth or, indeed, teeth. We will take an impression of the surrounding teeth, which will at some point, support the bridge. As the name suggests, a bridge will bridge any gaps between your teeth.
With bridges, there are a plethora of solutions. It might be you have one tooth missing, it might be you have three teeth missing. Bridges are also dependent on your age, your build, your bite alongside the condition of your neighbouring teeth. Usually, for an adhesive bridge, you would probably only have one false tooth. But, for conventional, larger bridges, you may have up to six missing teeth. Have a chat with our qualified dentists and work out what’s best for you.
Why Would I Need A Bridge?
If you have spaces between your teeth that are uneven, it can cause dental problems such as poor bite. At worst, it could lead to gum disease and temporomandibular disease (also sometimes known as TMD). TMD is sometimes caused by spaces between your teeth, so if you notice pain around your jaw, ear and temple or clicking, popping and grinding noises when you move your jaw, these are all symptomatic of TMD. Check out https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/temporomandibular-disorder-tmd/ to learn more. Bridges in teeth can help prevent such an unpleasant outcome and will help your teeth grow and remain in their natural positions.
How Do Bridges Work?
Bridges are made of porcelain and/or ceramic and can be matched to the colour of your existing teeth. Firstly, we will assess your situation and have a chat about the various options available to you. Next, we will prepare your teeth which may involve taking a scan. Finally, we will check the dental bridge to make sure it’s the correct fit, aesthetics and bite and just how they should be. We will then cement your bridge in place.
