Crown and Bridges

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A dental crown may be recommended if the dentist decides that the tooth is badly damaged and the remainder needs protection. Crowns (or caps as they are sometimes called) fit over the tooth much like a thimble fits a finger. They are bonded to the prepared tooth and once fitted they are very strong, natural looking and can last many years without problem.

Crowns can be matched to your natural tooth colour and shape as they are made from porcelain. The dentist will prepare and shape your tooth before taking an impression and shade match. This is then sent to the laboratory where the crown will be made. The dentist will place a temporary crown over your tooth until you
return (usually) a week later to have the permanent crown fitted.
Bridges are similar to a crown but are designed to replace one (or more) adjacent missing teeth. A bridge permanently bridges the gap between teeth and is becoming preferable to partial dentures.
The teeth either side of the missing tooth (teeth) will be prepared and shaped to hold the bridge and an impression will be taken along with a shade of your natural tooth colour. This will be sent to the laboratory where the bridge is made.
You will usually return to the surgery the following week to have the bridge permanently fitted, and any minor adjustments will be made. A bridge is made from porcelain fused to metal and gives a very pleasing result for the patient. Bridges are affordable, low risk, and very natural looking.