Rodericks Dental Partners Treatments Dental Crowns and Bridges

Restorative

Dental Crowns and Bridges

With modern restorations, it can be possible to repair cracks, deep tooth decay and fractures predictably.

Dental crowns

Crowns for your teeth can be recommended when the tooth is broken, worn down or decayed to such an extent that a filling isn’t an option anymore. They’re created in a dental lab from porcelain or metal to your exact specifications. Once made, the restoration is either cemented or bonded over your existing tooth.

Dental bridges

Dental bridges are a predictable way to fill spaces in your smile caused by missing teeth or large gaps. A bridge consists of a prosthetic tooth or teeth which are secured at each end by a crown. Even if your missing teeth are not causing discomfort, bridges can prevent potential future problems by strengthening teeth. Like crowns, a bridge is created from porcelain or precious metal. These can be an excellent fixed alternative to dentures.

Crowns and Bridges benefits

Beautiful smile

Getting a tooth bridge and crowns for your teeth can improve the aesthetics of your smile.

Restored function

Replacing any missing teeth can improve your ability to eat well and speak more clearly.

Easy maintenance

Crowns and bridges can be cared for after your appointment by brushing, flossing and attending check-ups. They’re easy to maintain, and you can look after them in the same way that you would care for your other teeth.

How it works

This process is personalised to give you the best results.

Tooth preparation

Your dentist will carefully prepare your affected tooth so it’s the appropriate shape for the indicated crown.

Dental impressions

Dental impressions will be taken of your tooth, or scanning will be done and sent to a dental lab. They’ll then create the crown or bridge.

Temporary restoration

Whilst these are being made in the lab, temporary crowns will be applied during your appointment to ensure your smile is maintained.

Crown or bridge created

Using your impressions, skilled technicians will craft your customised bridge or crowns for your teeth in their lab.

Cementing restoration

After it’s tried, the crown is cemented to your treated tooth. You’ll be given advice to maintain your oral hygiene like brushing, flossing and attending regular check-ups as normal.

FAQs

What is the difference between a crown and a bridge?

A dental crown is a single-tooth restoration which caps your existing tooth. A tooth bridge replaces one or more adjacent missing teeth with a prosthetic that fills the gap. It’s held in its place at each end by a crown.

What are dental bridges and crowns made of?

Porcelain fused to metal is typically used to create crowns and bridges. They’re an effective solution for success and look great. They may also be made of other materials such as gold, which is a durable metal that wears at a similar rate to teeth. Zirconia might also be used because it's very strong, even in thin sections. Ceramic is another material sometimes used, and it has the advantage of looking natural. Ceramic bridges and crowns typically have a zirconia core for strength and are layered with porcelain.

How is a crown or bridge fitted?

Your dentist will prepare your tooth by filing it down into a smooth shape that accommodates the restoration correctly. Your dental impressions will be taken and sent to a lab where your custom teeth and bridge dental restorations will be created. When they’re ready, you’ll be asked to return to the dentist to have your crown or bridge cemented or bonded in place.

How long will my crown or bridge last for?

Bridges can last 10-20 years on average, and dental crowns can last 15-20 years on average. They may last even longer depending on the type of materials used, how well they’re looked after and the condition of the supporting teeth.

What types of dental bridge are there?

There are three different types of bridges available. The most commonly used tooth bridge uses two single crowns to hold a false tooth in between. Cantilever bridges are another option, but only one tooth is used to hold the false tooth in place. Resin-bonded bridges are the third option. They can be permanent but are often used as a temporary solution. With this type of bridge, a metal wing is bonded to the back of one or more of your teeth to retain the false tooth.

Are there any alternatives to crowns and dental bridges?

The main alternatives to crowns for your teeth and dental bridges are either implants or dentures. There’s also the option to have nothing at all if you’d like.

Ready for the next step?

Our dentists provide high-quality and personalised treatments to help look after your smile. To find out more about the types of dental crowns and bridges we offer, as well as their cost, you can visit one of our practices today.

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