Crown & Bridge

Crowns and bridges are a fixed solution to missing or damaged teeth. This restorative procedure uses prosthetic part to return your smile to its natural state. A crown is used when the tooth structure is damaged or fractured. A bridge is used when one or more teeth are missing.

What is a crown?

A crown is basically a manufactured tooth. It’s generally made of porcelain or ceramic that can be colour and texture-matched to your existing teeth. A crown can also be made of gold alloys for improved strength when replacing a back tooth. Often a metal crown will have porcelain bonded to the exterior to give it strength and a natural look.

Whether you have a crown or a bridge, the most important thing is to regularly visit your dentist for a checkup and clean. This way problems can be detected early, allowing them to be corrected before they become painful and expensive.

When is a crown or bridge required?

Crowns and bridges are used to repair a number of different dental problems.

A crown can be used when:

• a tooth is fractured or damaged
• too much decay has weakened a tooth
• a tooth is severely discoloured
• a tooth is misshapen
• a dental bridge needs an anchor.

A bridge is used to replace a missing tooth or teeth. It is also a possible solution when dentures are unstable, uncomfortable or aesthetically displeasing.

To find out if you’re a suitable candidate for a crown or bridge, it’s essential that you are assessed by a dentist. Once you explain to your dentist the result you would like to achieve, they will be able to tell you exactly what is, and is not, possible in your situation.