Dental crowns and bridges are essential in maintaining the structure and function of your teeth. Crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape and size, while bridges are false teeth that fill the gap left by missing teeth and are anchored onto surrounding teeth. These dental restorations are made to last for many years, but neglecting them can cause severe dental problems in the long run. In this blog post, we will discuss the dangers of neglecting your dental crowns and bridges and what you can do to prevent them.
What Are Bridges and Crowns?
Crowns and bridges are the two types most commonly used in dentistry today. These procedures are often used to improve the appearance and dental health of a client’s teeth. At the Blue Ash Dental Group dental office, the dental crown and bridge experts can help you smile. A dental bridge and dental crown may be called as follows:-
- Dental Crown: This is done on damaged teeth and is a cap or cover for the tooth to protect it from being further damaged.
- Dental Bridge: this type of treatment involves attaching a false tooth to the adjacent healthy teeth, creating an artificial bridge over the gap created by missing teeth.
Both dental crowns and bridges are custom-made to fit your mouth perfectly and are made from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years.
The dangers of neglecting your dental crowns and bridges
Decay and infection:
Over time, the cement that holds your dental crown or bridge in place can wear off leaving a gap between the restoration and your natural tooth. This gap allows bacteria and food debris to accumulate in the space and cause decay and infection in the affected tooth. If left untreated, the decay can spread to the surrounding teeth and gums, leading to gum disease, further tooth loss, and even systemic health problems.
Discomfort and pain:
A poorly fitting dental crown or bridge can cause discomfort and pain, especially when chewing or biting down. This can be due to a loose restoration, improper alignment, or damaged dental cement. If left unaddressed, the discomfort and pain can worsen and lead to inflamed gums, loss of jawbone density, and loosening of other teeth.
Wear and tear:
Dental crowns and bridges undergo a significant amount of stress and strain, especially when chewing and grinding down food. Over time, the restoration can become worn and weaken, leading to cracks, fractures, and chips. A damaged crown or bridge can cause discomfort, instability, and further decay or infection if left untreated.
Protrusion or displacement:
A dental crown or bridge that has become loose or unstable can become dislodged or protruded, leaving a sharp or jagged edge that can cause injury to your tongue, cheeks, and gums. If left untreated, a dislodged restoration can lead to infection, jawbone loss, and further damage to your surrounding teeth.
Expensive repairs and replacements:
Neglecting your dental crowns and bridges can lead to severe dental problems that can require expensive repairs or replacements. These procedures can be time-consuming, and expensive, and may require several dental visits. In some cases, the damage may be severe enough that you may need a full mouth reconstruction, which is a comprehensive dental restoration of your entire mouth that can be very costly and lengthy.
Your dental crowns and bridges are essential for maintaining your oral health, and neglecting them can lead to severe dental problems, discomfort, pain, and expensive repairs or replacements. To prevent these issues, it is crucial to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen and schedule regular dental appointments with your dentist. Your dentist can check your dental restorations for wear and tear, proper alignment, and adequate fit and can address any issues before they become severe. Remember, a healthy smile is a happy smile, and taking care of your dental crowns and bridges is an essential part of that.
Worry about your Dental crown or Bridges? Don’t let worry weigh down your smile! We’re here to ease your concerns and ensure the longevity of your dental crowns and bridges. Reach out today to discover how we can help you care for your dental investments with confidence