Crowns / Bridges
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are custom made restorations that are used to restore function to a broken tooth, protect a weakened tooth that is vulnerable to fracture (i.e. if it has had root canal treatment) or to improve the aesthetics of a tooth / existing crown with poor aesthetics. Crowns are also used to anchor a bridge or denture firmly in place in the mouth.
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Crowns fit over your prepared natural tooth, making it stronger and since it is tooth coloured, the restoration will have a natural appearance and fit in with the rest of your teeth. Crowns are available in a variety of materials (as detailed below) to aid function and aesthetics and your dentist will discuss these options with you depending on your individual requirements.
Dental Bridges
Dental Bridges are a good solution if you require more extensive restoration than a crown or have more than one tooth that needs to be repaired. A Dental Bridge can restore function and aesthetics by replacing the gap with a false tooth using the aid of the tooth / teeth next to it. Dental Bridges prevent your teeth surrounding the gap from drifting out of position.
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There are three main designs of Dental Bridges and your dentist will discuss these options with you to advise which type will be more suitable for you:
Resin Bonded Bridges / Maryland Bridges – most conservative bridge as they both require minimal preparation to the supporting teeth. They have metal ‘wings’ either side of the false tooth which are cemented to the back surface of the supporting teeth. The shade of the false tooth is matched with the surrounding teeth enabling it to blend in with your teeth.
Fixed Bridges – involve preparing the supporting teeth either side for crowns and then fixing the false tooth replacing the gap between both crowns. This option is ideal for improving the aesthetics of your teeth or existing crown either side of the gap.
Once you have a bridge fitted, you will have to take extra care of your daily hygiene regime to ensure it stays plaque free as well as to prevent bad breath.
Types of materials for Dental Crowns / Dental Bridges:
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Zirconia – strong, metal-free material which meets strength and cosmetic factors, suitable for restorations on both front and back teeth as it can withstand forces of mastication
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EMAX – designed to replicate natural tooth, a composition of lithium disilicate glass ceramic which is translucent, durable and strong, suitable for restorations on both front and back teeth.
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All Porcelain – has a natural, translucent appearance, usually used for restorations on front teeth due to their highly aesthetic properties.
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Gradia - strong with high-wear resistance, metal-free which makes it more naturally aesthetic than bonded metal crowns.
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Porcelain Bonded to Metal – very strong due to the metal substructure yet still aesthetically pleasing as porcelain is bonded to the metal. Recommended for patients who have heavy bites due to their robust strength.