Crowns & Bridges
Crowns
A crown is a type of dental restoration used to fix teeth that have been broken, weakened by decay or contain a very large filling. Here is how it works:
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An impression is taken of the tooth that needs restoring.
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A crown is made in the dental laboratory to fit the tooth precisely and match the neighbouring teeth.
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The tooth is then prepared and the crown fitted securely on top.
A crown could be a good solution for you if you have some discoloured fillings and would like to improve their appearance. Crowns can be used to replace these to give you a more appealing smile. Additionally, if you have had root canal treatment you will need a crown to protect or cap the restored tooth, allowing you to eat and bite down on it as if it was a real tooth. Crowns are also used to anchor a bridge or denture firmly in place in the mouth.
Life Benefits
Strengthens remaining tooth structure.
Natural-looking restoration.
Functions like a real tooth, so you can bite and chew as usual.
How the Treatment Works
Bridges
If you require a more extensive restoration than a crown or have more than one tooth that needs to be repaired, a good solution is a bridge. Here is how they work:
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Bridges are usually made of a precious metal base, which gives them a solid structure and makes them hard-wearing. If you need a bridge in your smile line, porcelain is usually added to the base to make it look more like real teeth.
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A bridge helps to strengthen the prepared teeth and makes chewing and eating easier because they are fixed and can't come out.
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Some bridges can also be fixed to your jaw with dental implants, if you have several teeth next to each other that are missing.
Once you have a bridge fitted, you will have to take extra care during your daily hygiene regime to ensure it stays plaque free and does not cause bad breath.
Life Benefits
A sturdy way to restore several teeth in a row.
Beautiful, natural-looking restoration.
Restores the ability to chew and eat as before.