Crowns & bridges

Our teeth are very durable and hardworking. When they are treated properly, they help us chew and smile, pain free. But just like the rest of our body, teeth are vulnerable to neglect, injury, and the natural process of aging. When you look at your teeth, what you see is the white enamel covering the crown of the tooth.

What is a crown?
A crown is a new exterior, custom-made for your tooth. It can be made entirely from ceramic, a combination of gold and ceramic, or gold. No one type of crown is suitable in all situations. All-ceramic crowns have a natural translucency, making them hard to tell from your other teeth. New techniques allow us to create crowns entirely of porcelain, beautifully matching the colour of your other teeth. If a crown is needed on a front tooth, this type of crown is a wonderful option.

What is a crown

What is involved in getting a crown?
Once your tooth has been numbed, the dentist will reduce your tooth slightly to take away the damaged or weakened part of the tooth. An impression is then made of your teeth, and is sent to a dental laboratory for fabrication of the crown. Once the impression is done, we fit your tooth with a temporary crown. When your new crown is ready (usually about two weeks after the first appointment), we will bond the permanent crown to your tooth.

Why should I get a crown after a root canal?
During endodontic (root canal) treatment, the nerve, blood and nutrient supply to the tooth is removed. This weakens the tooth slightly, making it more prone to fracturing which could result in the eventual need for an extraction. A crown fits over the tooth, holds it together, and helps prevent breakage.

What is a dental bridge?
A bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. The bridge spans the space left by the missing teeth and is permanently bonded onto your teeth like a crown. It cannot be removed. A bridge will give you a very natural result. It is used to replace missing teeth and helps prevent shifting of teeth where a tooth has been lost. You can chew, brush and eat as you normally would.

what is dental bridge

Crowns and bridges

A bridge replaces missing teeth, giving you a natural smile.