Crowns & Bridges
Partial hollow tooth is called cap/crown. Bridges are prosthetic replacements at the spaces of missing natural teeth & caps protect a RCT treated tooth from further harm. When the tooth is decayed over a greater portion requiring a larger filling or is broken or fractured, then also cap/crown is indicated. And also fixed prosthesis can be placed for restoring the natural dentition where implants are being placed. The bridges are usually cemented over the teeth adjoining the missing teeth / implants.
They are available in different forms & are of different types:
- Metal (gold)
- PFM (Porcelain fused to metal
- Zirconia
They should be protected & kept clean just like the natural teeth for their longivity.
Indications:-
- To protect weak/root canal treated tooth
- Restore broken tooth
- Prevent degradation of already crooked tooth
- Support teeth with large fillings
- To alter teeth alignment/ shape/ shade of teeth for aesthetics
Indications for Bridge:-
- Replacement of Single tooth/ small spanning space
- Splinting of periodontally compromised tooth for occlusal stability, comfort and decrease mobility
- Unwillingness of patients to opt for crowns
- Unsuitability for implants due to inadequate bone levels