Crowns and Bridges

Crowns and bridges are both different types of cosmetic and conservative treatment for the teeth. With the use of crowns and bridges we are able to improve upon the colour, position, size and shape of a tooth in one treatment as well as protect them if they are worn down or heavily filled already. Simply because of these benefits they are becoming a popular treatment choice in dentistry.

The dentist will be able to help you to decide if they are the right treatment for you and it will depend on a better understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of all the treatment options you have available to you. These options will depend on your dental needs and expectations.

Factors such as whether or not you have gaps, worn teeth, old fillings or conditions such as tooth wear will affect your decision-making process.

What is a crown?

A crown is a lab made fixed appliance which completely caps or encircles an implant or the natural tooth after a process of trimming it approximately 1mm on all surfaces. It is most commonly used to protect teeth with extreme wear or existing large restorations/cavities but has the benefit of improving the appearance of the teeth.

What is a bridge?

A bridge is very similar to a crown but is used to fill a gap. If you have one or more missing teeth, a bridge uses the teeth either side of the gap as support to hold a tooth between them. It is most beneficial when the teeth either side of the gap are heavily filled and the patient is struggling to eat because of the gap.

Crown and bridges are most commonly made of porcelain or ceramic and can be lined with a metal alloy for strength if necessary, and in the modern age they can look as natural as your actual teeth.

What are the advantages of crowns and bridges?

They are fixed appliances that can be maintained by good oral hygiene like the rest of the teeth. They are not removable and do not need to be taken out to be cleaned. They can improve the position, size, colour and shape of a tooth all in one treatment if you are a suitable candidate for them. The best part is that you can choose what size, shape and colour you would like.

They are a long-term treatment. If you follow a good oral hygiene regime, attend regular examinations and make every effort to take care of them they can last many years.