A dental crown is a tooth-shaped natural-coloured cap that restores a decayed, broken, weak or worn-down tooth. Sometimes known as ‘caps’, they fit completely over a whole tooth, concealing defects caused by chips, decay, discolouration or large fillings.
Made from a variety of materials, including metal, porcelain, resin or ceramic, they can also be used to support a dental bridge or affixed to a dental implant.
To protect a weakened tooth from breaking or to hold together fragments of a cracked tooth.
To restore a broken tooth or one that has been severely worn down.
To cover and support a tooth with a large filling.
To secure a dental bridge in place.
To improve the appearance of misshapen or severely discolored teeth.
To help align your bite for better function and comfort.
To cover a dental implant for a natural look.
To enhance the aesthetics of your smile with cosmetic modifications.
The choice of crown material depends on the location of the tooth being treated, but crowns can be made from one or a combination of the following materials:
Porcelain: Ideal for front teeth, as it closely matches natural tooth color and is suitable for patients with metal allergies.
Zirconia (Ceramic): Strong and durable, zirconia preserves more natural tooth structure, making it ideal for back teeth, though it may appear opaque.
Metal Alloy (Silver): Made from a blend of metals like nickel and chromium, these crowns are highly durable and require minimal tooth removal. They are typically used for back teeth due to their less natural appearance.
Typically, the process requires just two visits: the first to prepare the tooth, and the second to place and adjust the new crown for a perfect fit.
To prepare your tooth for a custom-made crown, your dentist will gently remove a small amount of tooth structure. The amount removed depends on the type of crown material chosen, as each material varies in thickness.
Next, precise impressions of your teeth are taken, along with the recording of your natural tooth shade, ensuring that your crown fits seamlessly and looks natural.
In the meantime, a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being crafted.
When the permanent crown is ready, the temporary one is removed, and the new crown is securely bonded with durable dental cement.
The best way to care for your crown is to stay on top of your oral hygiene – this means keeping your teeth and gums healthy by brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and flossing between your teeth.
A crown protects a tooth from decay, but not where it meets the gum, and it does not guard against gum disease, so it’s essential to keep the area clean and free from bacteria.
It would be best to see your dentist regularly for check-ups so they can keep an eye on your crown and the tooth underneath.
Dental bridges offer a durable, comfortable, and effective solution to replace one or more missing teeth, restoring both function and confidence!
They can improve your chewing ability, enhance the appearance of your smile, and boost your overall oral health.
A dental bridge consists of a false tooth placed between two crowns that fit over the adjacent teeth (known as abutment teeth) or are supported by dental implants. Typically made from porcelain fused to metal or ceramic, they combine strength with a natural, attractive appearance.
As well as restoring an incomplete smile, bridges can offer a host of other benefits, including:
The abutment teeth are carefully prepared by removing a small layer of enamel to create enough space for the crowns. Impressions are then taken to ensure the bridge is custom-designed for a perfect fit.
While the permanent bridge is being made, a temporary bridge may be placed to protect the sensitive teeth. Once the bridge is ready, it’s thoroughly checked and adjusted for the ideal fit, then securely bonded in place with strong dental cement.
In addition to traditional bridges, which feature crowns with a false tooth in between, there are also cantilever bridges designed for gaps with teeth on only one side, and Maryland-bonded bridges, which are attached to existing teeth with metal or ceramic wings for a more discreet option.
Good oral hygiene is essential to ensure the longevity of your bridge so care for the bridge just as you would care for your natural teeth.
Keep your bridge clean by:
If bridges are well looked after, including keeping the surrounding teeth healthy so they can continue to provide a solid foundation and last you well over ten years.
Please call your local Oradent practice and visit your dentist if:
We will be able to accommodate an appointment for you right away!
