Could you benefit from crowns or bridges? River Forest and Chicago, IL, dentists Dr. John Lynch, Dr. Sheila Lynch, and Dr. Frances Lynch 
of Lynch Dental Center share some commonly asked questions about crowns and bridgework.
What is the difference between crowns and bridges?
Crowns are hollow restorations custom-designed to fit over teeth. They're made of durable materials, such as porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal.
Bridges consist of one or more artificial teeth, or pontics, connected to crowns, known as abutments. The crowns fit over teeth on either side of the gap in your teeth and anchor the bridge in your mouth.
Before you receive a bridge or a crown, your tooth must be prepared. This ensures that the crown or bridge will fit correctly. Both crowns and bridges are created in dental laboratories and usually take about two weeks to complete. While you wait for your new restoration, you'll wear a temporary crown or bridge.
How can a bridge help me?
Bridges improve your smile by filling the gap in your teeth, but that's not their only benefit. The little things you take for granted, such as biting into a crisp apple, can become very difficult after you've lost a tooth or two. Bridges restore your ability to chew easily and also prevent your other teeth from drifting, a problem that often occurs after tooth loss.
When are crowns recommended?
We may recommend crowns during your visit to our River Forest or Chicago office if you have:
- Imperfections: Pitted or discolored teeth, or other small flaws, disappear when crowns are added to your teeth.
- Shape or Length Issues: An unusually shaped or short tooth can affect your appearance and your bite. Crowns lengthen teeth and improve the way they look
- A Fragile Tooth: Teeth can become fragile if they're cracked, brittle or have undergone certain dental procedures, such as a root canal or a large filling. Crowns prevent fragile teeth from fracturing.
- A Fracture: Fractured teeth are often painful and impair your ability to chew comfortably. Fortunately, crowns offer an effective way to restore your tooth and eliminate pain caused by exposure of the broken ends to the air.
Crowns and bridges offer a versatile solution to many common dental problems. If you're interested in a crown or bridge, schedule an appointment with Drs. John, Sheila or Frances Lynch of Lynch Dental Center by calling (708) 366-6411 for the River Forest, IL, office or (312) 263-3325 for the Chicago office.
