What Are Dental Lab Crowns And Bridges?
When it comes to dental care, there are often many different terms and procedures that people may not be familiar with. One such term that you may have heard of before is dental lab crowns and bridges, but what exactly are they?
Dental lab crowns, also known as dental caps, are a type of dental restoration that are used to cover or cap damaged or weakened teeth. They can be made from a variety of materials, but are typically made from porcelain, ceramic, or metal. Crowns are often used in situations where a tooth has been severely damaged or decayed, or where a filling is no longer able to support the tooth.
Dental bridges, on the other hand, are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They are made up of two or more crowns that are attached to the surrounding teeth, with a false tooth (also known as a pontic) in between. Bridges are a good option for patients who are missing one or several teeth but are not ideal candidates for dental implants.
Both dental lab crowns and bridges are custom-made in a dental lab to fit each patient's unique needs. The process typically involves taking impressions of the patient's teeth and sending them to the lab, where the restoration is fabricated. Once the crowns or bridge are completed, they are then attached to the patient's teeth using a dental cement.
While dental lab crowns and bridges are both effective dental restorations, they do require some special care to ensure they last as long as possible. Patients should make sure to brush and floss regularly, avoid biting on hard objects, and visit their dentist twice a year for regular checkups and cleanings.
Overall, dental lab crowns and bridges are important tools for dentists to help restore damaged or missing teeth, allowing patients to enjoy a healthy, functional smile. If you think you may be a candidate for either of these treatments, be sure to talk to your dentist to learn more about your options.