Years of biting and chewing can weaken a tooth until it cracks. A tooth that fractures badly or becomes infected may have to come out. A crown protects a weak tooth, and a bridge fills the gap where one is missing.
Crowns
A crown is a cover that fits over the whole tooth and stays there for good. It looks like a natural tooth, sometimes better. It makes the tooth stronger, improves how it looks and lowers the risk of it breaking. Think of it as a helmet for the tooth.
Bridges
If you have a few missing teeth, a bridge can fill the space. It is three or more crowns joined together and held by the teeth or implants on either side of the gap. Although the crowns are joined, each one is shaped to look like a separate tooth.
What happens
We shape the tooth or teeth that will be crowned, then take an accurate impression and send it to a dental laboratory. The laboratory makes the crown or bridge to the dentist’s prescription, and we cement it in place.
Looking after a crown or bridge
- Keep your mouth clean, and floss at least twice a day.
- Keep up regular check-ups and professional cleaning, so your teeth and gums stay healthy.
- Avoid hard, sticky and crunchy foods, such as chops, caramels and ice cubes.
- Try not to chew pens or bite your nails.
