Crowns and Bridges

Crowns may be required if the teeth/tooth 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.

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 and supporting bones are healthy. Good tooth brushing and the use of dental floss is therefore essential before and following treatment. Your dentist will advise you about this.

Front crowns and bridges are usually constructed of porcelain (or other ceramic) or porcelain with a metal backing to give a natural appearance. To strengthen teeth that are further back in the mouth, metal and porcelain or metal alone may be used.

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

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

If the tooth is badly broken down or in very poor shape, then there may be no alternative to a crown. Gaps in the mouth may be replaced by dentures or implants instead of a bridge. Please discuss this with your dentist if you are uncertain.