Crowns & Bridges KEARNY MESA, SAN DIEGO
At Kearny Mesa Smile Center, we understand the importance of maintaining the integrity of your teeth. That’s why we offer comprehensive services for crowns and bridges. Crowns are designed to protect and restore damaged teeth, while bridges serve as a reliable solution for replacing missing teeth and ensuring proper dental alignment.
Led by Dr. Paulo Cortes, our dedicated team at Kearny Mesa Smile Center is committed to providing exceptional dental care to the communities of Mira Mesa and the greater San Diego area. If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of crowns and bridges or would like to explore these treatment options, we invite you to contact our office and schedule an appointment with Dr. Cortes and his knowledgeable staff. Rest assured, we will provide you with the personalized attention and expert care needed to enhance your dental health and restore your smile.
Why are Crowns Used?
Crowns serve multiple purposes and offer various benefits for dental health. They are commonly used to protect damaged or broken teeth, preventing further deterioration that could lead to tooth loss. Additionally, crowns are an effective solution for filling gaps caused by missing teeth. When combined with dental implants, crowns contribute to the stability of the jaw and help maintain proper teeth alignment.
In addition to their functional role, crowns also provide a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance, creating the impression of a complete and healthy set of teeth. Beyond their cosmetic appeal, crowns play a vital role in safeguarding teeth from decay and potential future damage. In certain cases, it may be more practical to cover a tooth with a crown rather than pursuing extensive repairs, particularly if such repairs could compromise the tooth’s long-term strength and durability. By opting for crowns, patients can enjoy both the protective benefits and the improved visual appeal of their teeth.
What is a Bridge and How is it Used?
A bridge is a dental restoration that effectively spans the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are securely affixed to crowns placed on the adjacent teeth. This framework forms a bridge-like structure, providing stability and functionality.
To install a bridge, Dr. Cortes first prepares the existing teeth on either side of the gap by placing crowns over them. These crowns serve as anchors for the bridge and provide the necessary support. The pontics are then carefully positioned between the crowns, effectively filling the empty space left by the missing or extracted teeth.
By utilizing a bridge, Dr. Cortes ensures that the adjacent teeth remain in their proper positions, preventing unwanted shifting and maintaining the overall alignment of the teeth. This not only preserves the structural integrity of the mouth but also helps alleviate potential strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) caused by tooth misalignment.
If you have gaps in your smile caused by missing or broken teeth, a bridge can be a reliable solution to restore both the appearance and functionality of your teeth. Consult with Dr. Cortes to determine if a bridge is the right option for you.
Why is it Important to Fill Gaps Caused By Missing Teeth?
When a tooth is lost, the neighboring teeth lack the necessary support and can begin to shift over time. This shift can lead to a disruption in your natural bite pattern, affecting the way your teeth fit together harmoniously.
When the alignment of your teeth is compromised, it can exert excessive pressure on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The TMJ is responsible for facilitating smooth jaw movement and proper functioning of the jaw joint. Misaligned teeth can strain the TMJ, resulting in discomfort, inflammation, and restricted movement. This can lead to difficulties in normal mouth closure, chewing, and speaking.
By filling the gaps left by missing teeth, Dr. Cortes ensures that the remaining teeth are supported and maintained in their proper positions. This helps preserve your natural bite alignment, promoting optimal oral function and reducing the risk of TMJ-related complications.
If you have missing teeth, it is important to address the gaps to prevent unwanted tooth movement and potential TMJ issues. Consult with Dr. Cortes to explore suitable solutions for filling these gaps and restoring the alignment and functionality of your teeth.