Crowns and Bridges: Restoring Your Smile

What Is a Dental Crown?

A crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a natural tooth, covering it completely. It’s often recommended when a tooth is:

• Cracked, broken or badly worn
• Weakened by a large filling or decay
• Treated with a root canal and in need of protection
• Misshapen or discoloured in a way a filling can’t fix

A well-made crown restores the strength, shape and appearance of the tooth.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by “bridging” the gap. The replacement tooth is held in place by being attached to supports on either side. Those supports can be natural teeth, crowns or dental implants, which means a bridge always depends on something solid to anchor it.

How Crowns and Bridges Work Together

Crowns and bridges aren’t competing options. They’re closely related treatments that are often used together. For example, a traditional bridge commonly uses crowns on the teeth beside the gap to hold the replacement tooth in place. In other cases, a bridge can be supported by dental implants instead. Which approach suits you depends on the health of the neighbouring teeth, the position of the gap and your overall oral health.

What to Expect

1. Assessment. We examine the teeth and gums, usually with X-rays, and explain your options.
2. Preparation. The tooth (or supporting teeth) is shaped and an impression or scan is taken. A temporary restoration protects the area while your permanent one is made.
3. Fitting. Once ready, the crown or bridge is checked for fit, bite and appearance, then secured in place.

Looking After Them

Crowns and bridges don’t decay, but the natural tooth underneath and the gums around them still can. Brush twice a day, clean between your teeth (including underneath a bridge, with floss threaders or interdental brushes) and keep up with regular check-ups. With good care, they can last for many years.