Crowns and bridges

The installation of a porcelain crown is worth considering when the tooth is severely damaged by caries, trauma or fracture and cannot be rebuilt with a regular filling. The porcelain crown provides durability and aesthetics, protecting the tooth from further damage and restoring its function.

Another situation is the need to strengthen the tooth after root canal treatment. After such treatment, the tooth becomes weakened and prone to fractures, so a porcelain crown can effectively protect it, prolonging its service life and functionality.

Porcelain crowns are also ideal for patients who have discolored, distorted or unsightly teeth. Thanks to the high transparency and natural appearance of porcelain, these crowns can greatly improve the aesthetics of the smile.

It is also worth considering a porcelain crown when the teeth are heavily rubbed by bruxism (teeth grinding) or other factors. The crown will help restore their shape and function, protecting them from further wear.

A porcelain crown may be necessary to restore the bite after the loss of several teeth. In such a situation, crowns can help stabilize the bite and improve chewing function, which is crucial for oral health.

Teeth used as pillars of a prosthetic bridge often require additional reinforcement. Porcelain crowns can provide the necessary protection and durability, allowing the bridge to function properly.

Finally, teeth weakened due to large fillings can be effectively protected with a porcelain crown. Due to its strength and natural appearance, the porcelain crown is an excellent solution for teeth that require additional protection and strengthening.

Making a prosthetic bridge is a solution that brings many benefits to patients who have lost several teeth. The bridge is permanently anchored in the jaw or lower jaw bone, which provides stability and strength, just like natural teeth. Dental implants play the role of tooth roots, preventing bone loss at the site of missing teeth, which is a common problem with traditional bridges or dentures.

One of the biggest advantages of bridges is their durability and stability. Thanks to their solid anchorage in the bone, these bridges are more robust and resistant to the daily stresses of chewing and speaking compared to traditional bridges based on natural teeth. This allows patients to enjoy comfort and confidence while eating and talking.

Aesthetics is another important aspect that speaks in favor of choosing a bridge on implants. These bridges are designed to look like natural teeth, which helps to improve the appearance of your smile. Because implants support bridges from the inside of the gums, missing teeth are effectively replaced without visible metal components, which can be a problem with some traditional bridges.

Convenience of use is another significant advantage of bridges on implants. Unlike removable dentures, which can slide and require special cleaning agents, bridges are permanent and do not require special care beyond regular brushing and flossing, as with natural teeth. This makes everyday functioning simpler and more comfortable.

Ultimately, bridges contribute to maintaining oral health in the long run. By replacing missing teeth on implants, patients avoid shifting the remaining teeth, which can lead to bite problems and other complications. They also help maintain bone structure, preventing it from atrophying and supporting overall oral health.

Crowns and bridges are generally very durable prosthetic solutions that can serve patients for many years, often as long as 10—15 years or more if properly cared for. Their service life depends on the materials used to make them and the way they are used and cared for. Metal crowns are extremely durable and abrasion resistant, while porcelain crowns on a metal substructure combine aesthetics with durability. All-ceramic crowns, made of materials such as zirconium oxide, are very aesthetic and also durable. Prosthetic bridges, both full ceramic and those with implants, are also characterized by longevity, especially when properly cared for.

The durability of crowns and bridges also depends on oral hygiene, regular check-ups at the dentist, avoidance of habits such as teeth grinding, and proper diet. Regular dental check-ups allow early detection and repair of possible problems, which significantly extends the life of these prosthetic restorations.

Caring for crowns and bridges requires careful oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist to ensure their longevity and functionality. First and foremost, brushing your teeth regularly at least twice a day is key — it's best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to thoroughly remove plaque without damaging the surface of the prosthetic restorations. Threading is equally important, especially around crowns and bridges, where food debris can accumulate. Dental floss, Super Floss thread or special dental irrigators are excellent tools for removing contaminants from hard-to-reach places under the bridge.

Avoiding hard and sticky foods, such as nuts, caramel, or ice, can prevent damage or displacement of crowns and bridges. In addition, regular dental check-ups, at least every six months, allow early detection and repair of possible problems, such as leaks near the gums or damage to the material. The dentist can also professionally clean the surface of the restorations and apply specialized strengthening preparations, which further prolongs their life.

Ultimately, the use of mouthwashes, which reduce the amount of bacteria and provide fresh breath, are a complement to daily hygiene, protecting against gum infections that could affect the stability of crowns and bridges. With proper care, crowns and bridges can serve for many years, retaining both function and aesthetics.

The duration of the crown and bridge placement procedure depends on several factors, such as the number of teeth that require treatment, the patient's oral health, and the prosthetic method chosen. But in general, the process of installing a crown or bridge can be divided into several stages, each with a certain duration:

• First visit — includes an examination of the oral cavity, x-rays and discussion of the treatment plan. It can last from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
• Second visit The tooth or teeth are being prepared for a crown or bridge. This procedure includes anesthesia, tooth grinding and extraction of impressions. This can take from 1 to 2 hours, depending on the number of teeth and the degree of complication.
• Installation of a temporary crown or bridge — usually takes an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
• Making a crown or bridge in the laboratory — lasts from several days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of the work and the materials used (does not require the presence of the patient).
• The final visit — includes the removal of the temporary complement, the sizing, any adjustments and the cementing of the final crown or bridge. This can last from 1 to 2 hours.

In summary, the entire process of installing a crown or bridge may require 2 to 4 visits to the dental office, spread over several weeks, with each visit typically lasting from 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Putting on a crown or bridge usually does not hurt, since the procedure is carried out under local anesthesia, which effectively eliminates pain and discomfort. During the preparation of the tooth, that is, its grinding, the patient can feel only gentle pressure, but thanks to anesthesia it will not be painful. Slight discomfort or hypersensitivity may occur after the anaesthetic has subsided, especially with more intensive grinding or root canal treatment, but this is usually short-lived and can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relievers. It is important that the patient informs the dentist of any pain complaints during the procedure so that the doctor can adjust the anesthesia appropriately. In general, modern dental techniques and anesthetics make the installation of crowns and bridges a comfortable and low-invasive procedure.

Contraindications to the installation of crowns and bridges may be due to various health factors and anatomical conditions of the patient. Here are the main contraindications:

• Not having the right amount of healthy tooth tissue — if the tooth is too damaged or destroyed, there may not be enough tissue to fix the crown.
• Advanced Periodontal Disease — Gum diseases, such as advanced periodontitis, can lead to bone loss and tooth destabilization, making it impossible for crowns or bridges to be fitted effectively.
• Inadequate oral hygiene — patients who do not maintain an adequate level of oral hygiene are at greater risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease, which can make it impossible to maintain crowns and bridges for a long time.
• Insufficient bone — In the case of bridges on implants, the patient must have the right amount and quality of bone in the jaw or lower jaw to hold the implants. If the bone is insufficient, additional treatments such as bone grafts may be necessary.
• Bruxism (teeth grinding) — patients with bruxism can put excessive strain on crowns and bridges, leading to their premature wear or damage.
• Allergies to dental materials - patients with a confirmed allergy to metals or other materials used in crowns and bridges may develop an allergic reaction, which excludes the use of certain types of prosthetic restorations.
• Abnormal bite — Some malocclusion may prevent crowns and bridges from functioning properly, so prior orthodontic treatment may be necessary.
• Overall health — systemic diseases such as uncontrolled diabetes can affect the healing process and increase the risk of complications after dental procedures.

Before deciding to install a crown or bridge, the dentist conducts a detailed assessment of the patient's oral health and analyzes all potential contraindications to ensure safe and effective treatment.

In order to properly prepare for a visit to install a crown or bridge, it is worth taking a few key steps:

• First of all, take care of a thorough cleaning of the oral cavity before the visit by brushing your teeth and flossing the interdental spaces, which will allow the dentist to better assess the condition of the dentition.
• Make a complete list of any medications you are currently taking and tell your dentist about any existing allergies and chronic diseases.
• If you are nervous or have a fear of dental procedures, it is worth discussing this beforehand with the dentist, who can apply appropriate anesthetics or sedatives.
• Avoid eating immediately before the visit, especially heavy meals, to prevent possible unpleasant complaints during the procedure.
• Take with you any previous X-ray results or notes from other doctors if they are available and may affect your treatment.
• Also remember to reserve the right amount of time for the visit and possible recovery after the procedure, planning less intense activities that day.

Porcelain veneers are made in a dental laboratory. The technician shapes them and then burns them in the oven, which ensures their durability and aesthetics. They can be tried on beforehand and possibly change shape or color. The process is longer and more expensive than composite veneers, which are made in one visit. Porcelain veneers retain color and shine longer and are more resistant to abrasion, giving ample opportunities for individual personalization.