Crowns & Bridges
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Artificial crowns
An artificial crown is often the best way to save a tooth and strengthen it. The crown fits over the prepared existing tooth and replaces the nature crown.
This can be needed as teeth can chip, break or weaken due to:
- Trauma
- Tooth decay
- Large Fillings
- Root canal treatment to remove the tooth’s pulp, which contains blood vessels and nerves
- Age related wear and tear
Bridges
A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth. It consists of an artificial tooth anchored to the adjacent natural teeth. If a tooth is lost through an accident, or is too badly decayed to save with a crown, a bridge may be the treatment of choice.
In this case, an implant may also be suitable treatment option.
Materials for Crowns and Bridges
Crowns and bridges are often made of porcelain and metal alloy. Porcelain is strong and can be made to match the colour of the natural teeth. It is resistant to staining and can be cleaned if it becomes stained.
Metal alloy is used for strength, hardness and durability. It is especially useful for molars. Which must withstand the forces of grinding and crushing. Metal alloy and porcelain are well tolerated by the gum and cheek.
Teeth have function apart from chewing and biting, so missing teeth should be replaced:
- To improve appearance and speech
- To prevent stresses that cause damage to other teeth
- To prevent the teeth near the gap from shifting
- To maintain the natural bite
- To improve chewing ability
In most cases, at least two appointments are required for preparation and fitting of crowns and bridges. Sometimes a tooth will need a root canal filling, and possibly a post or foundation, before crown and bridge treatment.