Crowns & bridges.

Crowns (sometimes referred to as caps) are used to improve the appearance of teeth or to restore badly broken down teeth when there is insufficient tooth to hold a filling.  They can be made of cast gold, ceramic or a combination of both depending upon the specific needs of the treatment.  A bridge is a casting used to replace a missing tooth and is attached to teeth next to the gap, by using adhesive attachments or other crowns.

The latest metal free crowns and bridges provide very life-like aesthetics and can transform a smile while strengthening the teeth at the same time.

A crown is provided in several stages.  After a tooth has been prepared, a temporary crown will be put in place while a dental laboratory manufactures the crown. Temporary crowns are made from a tooth coloured plastic and are designed to last for a short period of time.  These crowns can be made to match the proposed final colour and shape of the new teeth. This way you can assess the bite and your new smile at home before the porcelain crowns are made.

There are alternatives to bridgework, which may include implants, and we will discuss these with you as part of your bespoke solution.

Who needs crowns and bridges?

 Crowns may be required if the teeth are too badly decayed or broken down and therefore need to be enclosed by the crown, in order to save them.  They may also be used to improve the colour or shape of the teeth.  Bridges are used to fill up small gaps in the mouth where teeth have been lost or removed.

Can anyone have crowns or bridges?

Crowns and bridges are not usually provided for young patients until the teeth and jaws are fully developed.  It is also important that the gums supporting bone are healthy.  Good tooth brushing and the use of dental floss are therefore essential before and following treatment.  We will advise you about this.

What materials are used for crowns and bridges?

 Front crowns and bridges will be constructed of porcelain (or other ceramic), or porcelain with a metal backing, to give a natural appearance.  Further back in the mouth we generally use a gold backing to give extra strength.

How long does crown and bridge treatment take?

Crowns and bridges usually take at least two visits.  The first visit is to prepare the tooth, by smoothing it down usually with local anaesthetic. An impression is taken and a temporary crown constructed.  The crown or bridge is then fitted, usually two weeks later.

How long do crowns and bridges last?

As long as the teeth and gums are maintained by both patient and dentist, crowns and bridges can last for many years.  However no absolute guarantee can ever be given and they may need to be replaced in time.  We will advise you if there are particular reasons that may shorten the normal lifespan of a crown or bridge.

Are there any alternatives to crowns or bridges?

If the tooth is badly broken down, or in very poor shape, there may be no other way to save it than a crown.  Gaps in the mouth may be replaced by dentures or implants instead of a bridge.  We will discuss this with you and advise you on the best solution for you.

What are the risks?

As with any treatment there is a risk of nerve damage. This risk is generally less than 10%. Should it occur the tooth can often be root-treated through the crown.