CROWNS AND BRIDGES

What is a Crown?

• A crown, also known as cap, is a dental restoration which covers and fits over the tooth and restores it to its normal shape and size. A crown can make your tooth stronger and also improve its appearance.

• there are a few types of crowns: porcelain, porcelain fused to metal and all- metal.

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When is a crown needed?

• A tooth is severely decayed and the remaining tooth structure is weak

• After a tooth had root canal therapy

• A previously restored tooth which had a large filling already and need to be replaced

• Fractures

• The tooth is used as support for a bridge

• The above are only some of the common indications for crowns

What does it involve?

• It usually takes at least two visits to complete a crown.

• At the first appointment, the tooth is prepared to receive the crown. An impression is taken and sent to a dental laboratory where a dental technician will custom made the crown to the shape and colour it needs. A temporary crown is fitted at the end of the session.

• At the second appointment, the temporary crown is removed and the final crown is adjusted and cemented onto the tooth.

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What is a bridge?

• A Bridge is a artificial tooth (pontic) which is attached to a crown on each side. This is know as a fixed bridge (as shown below).

• It is used to replace a missing tooth/teeth/space.

• There are also other types of bridges such cantilever bridge and Maryland bridge.

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