About Mark Bornfeld DDS Expertise I can respond to all questions dealing with the practice of dentistry, from both the dentist`s and patient`s perspective. I am knowledgeable about all dental disciplines, from cosmetic dentistry to surgery, from restorative dentistry to root canal treatment. I have strong opinions about controversial issues in dental practice, including those topics which directly impact on the reputation of the profession in the eyes of both the lay public and our health profession colleagues.
Experience
Past/Present Clients Editor, Queens County Academy of General Dentistry newsletter; contributor to Dentistry.com 29 years practicing general dentistry partnered with brother Steve as one-half of the DentalTwins®
Question Dear Dr. Bornfeld,
I'm an aspiring boxer. I'd like to put crowns on my front upper teeth and I'd like to know if crowns are more likely to break than regular teeth. Like if I get hit hard could a crown take the impact or is there a risk of it coming loose? Also what would be the best material in my case?
I also lost an upper cuspid tooth so I was thinking about putting a bridge there, but a bridge kinda looks fragile to me, any advice on the best way to close the gap?
Many thanks,
Sam
Answer Dear Sam,
The answers depend on the current condition of your teeth. For example, if your upper front teeth have large fillings or extensive areas of decay, the placement of crowns will strengthen them and make them less likely to fracture from a physical blow. Conversely, if your teeth are currently without fillings or have no current or previous decay, the placement of crowns will weaken the teeth somewhat, since they will need to have some of their structure removed in order to accommodate crowns without increasing their bulk. Understand that in normal functional activity, crowns do not compromise strength, but in boxing where the intent is to inflict injury on one's opponent, all bets are off. A tooth that has received a crown may be more likely to break off at the gumline. While a mouth guard may offer some protection, the physical force of a blow to the mouth will not be totally dissipated. In boxing, you will assume some risk to your teeth, regardless of whether they have crowns. Your dentist may be able to assess whether the placement of crowns would present either a liability or an advantage to your teeth, based on their current state of repair.
As for the replacement of your cuspid, this is also a question that is best left to your dentist. A fixed bridge is not fragile, but may be pushed to its limits in the context of a boxing match. The placement of an implant prosthesis is not immune to injury, either; the fixture may become displaced from the bone, or the abutment that is attached to the fixture may snap off, rendering the implant useless. You may wish to wear some type of temporary removable "flipper" prosthetic device until you have concluded your boxing career if you wish to avoid the fragility issue for the time being.
Good luck!
Mark Bornfeld DDS
www.dentaltwins.com
Brooklyn, NY
