A healthy and confident smile is a valuable asset, but dental issues like tooth decay, damage, or missing teeth can diminish its beauty and function. At Swati Agarwal, DDS, we offer crowns and bridges as versatile and effective restorative dentistry solutions that can help you regain your smile's integrity and functionality.
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, or appearance. Our dentist in San Francisco, CA, cements the crown over the damaged tooth. It encases the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line.
A bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces missing teeth. The bridge is anchored in place by crowns attached to the adjacent teeth and consists of one or more replacement teeth called pontics. The abutments on either side hold the false tooth or teeth in place.
Both crowns and bridges can help restore your smile's appearance and improve your oral function. They can also help to prevent future dental issues.
The Advantages of Crowns
Strength and Durability
One of the primary advantages of crowns in San Francisco, CA, is their exceptional strength and durability. Crowns are custom-made from porcelain, ceramic, or metal, materials renowned for their resilience. Once placed, a crown can withstand the forces of chewing and biting, protecting the underlying tooth from further damage.
Tooth Preservation
Crowns are often used to save damaged or weakened teeth that might otherwise require extraction. A crown preserves the tooth’s natural structure and functionality by covering and reinforcing it. This allows you to keep your natural tooth rather than resorting to extraction.
Protection From Further Damage
A crown acts as a protective shield if a tooth has significant decay or damage. It prevents further deterioration and secures the tooth against bacterial invasion. This protection is particularly beneficial following root canal treatment or for teeth with large fillings.
The Advantages of Bridges
Restored Aesthetic Appearance
One of the most noticeable advantages of bridges in San Francisco, CA, is their ability to restore the appearance of your smile after tooth loss. When teeth are missing, it can affect your facial aesthetics, leading to a sunken or aged look. Dental bridges fill the gap, preserving your facial structure and youthful appearance.
Improved Chewing and Speech
Missing teeth can make chewing food and speaking challenging. Bridges restore these essential functions by providing a stable and functional bite. You can enjoy a more varied diet and communicate confidently without struggling with pronunciation.
Preservation of Tooth Alignment
When teeth are missing, adjacent teeth can gradually shift or rotate into the empty space. This can lead to misalignment and bite issues. Bridges prevent this shifting, preserving proper tooth alignment and bite function.
Crowns and bridges are essential restorative dentistry solutions for damaged or missing teeth. Visit Swati Agarwal, DDS, at 500 Sutter St., Suite 615, San Francisco, CA 94102, or call 415-326-0518 to determine the most suitable option for your dental needs.
