Dental Crowns & Bridges: Differences, Benefits, and CEREC Technology at Scotia Tower Dental

At Scotia Tower Dental in Vancouver, we understand the importance of a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile. Dental crowns and bridges are two of the most effective restorative treatments available to repair damaged teeth or replace missing ones. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked tooth, a large cavity, or the loss of one or more teeth, our team is here to provide personalized care using the latest dental technology.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the differences between dental crowns and bridges, their benefits, and how our advanced CEREC technology can transform your smile in just one visit.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. It is designed to restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance while protecting it from further damage. Crowns are an excellent solution for a variety of dental issues, including:

• Severe Tooth Decay: When a tooth has a large cavity that cannot be repaired with a simple filling, a crown provides the necessary support and protection.
• Cracked or Broken Teeth: Crowns can hold together a tooth that has been fractured, preventing further damage and restoring functionality.
• After a Root Canal: Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment often require a crown to protect them and restore their strength.
• Cosmetic Enhancements: Crowns can also be used to improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth, creating a more uniform and attractive smile.

At Scotia Tower Dentist, we use high-quality materials such as porcelain, ceramic, and zirconia to create crowns that are both durable and natural-looking. Our goal is to ensure that your crown blends seamlessly with your existing teeth, providing a comfortable fit and a beautiful result.

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth (pontics) that are anchored to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Bridges are an ideal solution for patients who want to restore their smile’s appearance and functionality without undergoing surgery.

There are several types of dental bridges, including:

• Traditional Bridges: These are the most common type and involve creating a crown for the teeth on either side of the gap, with a pontic in between.
• Cantilever Bridges: Used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth.
• Maryland Bridges: These bridges use a metal or porcelain framework to bond the pontic to the backs of adjacent teeth.
• Implant-Supported Bridges: These are anchored to dental implants rather than natural teeth, providing a more stable and long-lasting solution.

Bridges not only fill the gap left by missing teeth but also prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of position, which can lead to bite problems and jaw pain. At Scotia Tower Dentist, we work closely with you to determine the best type of bridge for your unique needs.

Key Differences Between Crowns and Bridges

While both crowns and bridges are restorative treatments, they serve different purposes:

• Purpose: Crowns are used to restore damaged teeth, while bridges are used to replace missing teeth.
• Structure: A crown covers an existing tooth, while a bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth supported by crowns on adjacent teeth or implants.
• Application: Crowns are typically used for individual teeth, whereas bridges are used when one or more teeth are missing.

Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision about which treatment is right for you. During your consultation at Scotia Tower Dentist, we’ll evaluate your oral health and discuss your goals to recommend the best option for your smile.

Benefits of Dental Crowns and Bridges

Both crowns and bridges offer numerous benefits for patients seeking to restore their smiles:

1. Improved Functionality: Crowns and bridges restore the ability to chew and speak properly, making everyday activities more comfortable.
2. Enhanced Appearance: These restorations are designed to look and feel like natural teeth, boosting your confidence and self-esteem.
3. Long-Lasting Results: With proper care, crowns and bridges can last for many years, providing a durable solution for dental issues.
4. Prevention of Further Damage: Crowns protect weakened teeth from breaking, while bridges prevent adjacent teeth from shifting out of place.
5. Customized Solutions: At Scotia Tower Dentist, we tailor each crown and bridge to match your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and comfortable fit.

CEREC Technology in Vancouver: Same-Day Crowns and Bridges

At Scotia Tower Dental, we are proud to offer CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) technology, a revolutionary system that allows us to design, create, and place crowns and bridges in just one visit. This cutting-edge technology eliminates the need for messy impressions, temporary restorations, and multiple appointments, making the process faster and more convenient for our patients.

Here’s how CEREC works:

1. Digital Scanning: We use a state-of-the-art intraoral scanner to create a precise 3D model of your teeth.
2. Computer-Aided Design (CAD): Our dentist uses specialized software to design your crown or bridge, ensuring a perfect fit and natural appearance.
3. Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM): The design is sent to an in-office milling machine, which crafts your restoration from a block of high-quality ceramic.
4. Placement: Once your crown or bridge is ready, we bond it to your tooth or teeth, completing the procedure in a single visit.

CEREC restorations are not only efficient but also highly durable and aesthetically pleasing. The ceramic material used matches the color and translucency of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and beautiful result.

Why Choose Scotia Tower Dental for Your Crowns and Bridges?

At Scotia Tower Dentist, we are committed to providing exceptional dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Experienced Team: Our skilled dentists and staff have extensive experience in restorative dentistry, ensuring that you receive the highest quality care.
• Advanced Technology: We invest in the latest dental technology, including CEREC, to provide efficient and precise treatments.
• Personalized Care: We take the time to understand your unique needs and goals, creating a customized treatment plan that works for you.
• Affordable Options: We believe that everyone deserves a healthy smile, which is why we offer competitive pricing and flexible payment plans.

Caring for Your Crowns and Bridges

To ensure the longevity of your crowns and bridges, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene practices. Here are some tips:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
• Avoid chewing on hard objects, such as ice or pens, which can damage your restorations.
• Visit Scotia Tower Dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.

Restore Your Smile Today

If you’re considering dental crowns or bridges, Scotia Tower Dental is here to help. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the highest standard of care, using the latest technology and techniques to achieve outstanding results. Whether you need a single crown or a full bridge, we’ll work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile. At Scotia Tower Dental, your smile is our priority!