Crowns and bridges are used to replace missing teeth and restore function and aesthetics to a smile. They are both a restorative and cosmetic dental treatment because they enhance and restore the appearance of the natural tooth structure by imitating the shape and colour of your natural tooth. They are often used when a tooth has become decayed, cracked or has been otherwise affected by dental disease such as periodontitis. Crowns and bridges can also be used after root canal therapy.
What is a crown?
A crown is a hollow ‘cap’ that is fixed over a tooth to restore strength and appearance to a damaged or broken tooth. Crowns are generally made from porcelain materials and are moulded from the shape of the natural tooth to replicate its natural appearance.
What does the crown process involve?
Crowns are generally made of tooth coloured porcelain and are colour matched to your natural teeth. The treatment can be completed in as little as two appointments. After your tooth has been cleaned and prepared, your permanent porcelain crown will be fitted. It is important to maintain your oral hygiene to maintain the strength of this tooth.
What are bridges?
A bridge may be recommended if you’re missing one or more teeth. They will often be made out of two exterior dental crowns with one or two solid prosthetic teeth in the middle. These crowns will be fixed to your natural tooth and the two solid teeth will fill in the gap in your mouth. It’s important to replace gaps in your smile, as gaps left by missing teeth eventually cause the adjacent teeth to shift and disrupt your natural bite.
How do they work?
Bridges span the space where there are missing teeth, connected by two crowns on either side. Artificial teeth are fixed between crowns which are attached to natural teeth or implants on either side of the space.
Caring for your porcelain restorations
Dental crowns can last up to 15 years if they are cared for correctly and they can last as little as five if not cared for well. While the crown itself is resistant to decay, it’s important to maintain a strict oral hygiene regime as this will ensure that the natural tooth structure adjacent to the crown is protected from decay.
Make an appointment today with one of our friendly dentists
Looking for a cosmetic dentist near you? We cover the Tewantin, Noosa, Noosaville, Cooroy, Cootharaba, Sunshine Coast and surrounding suburbs and easily located in the heart of Tewantin. Whether you are new patient or a returning patient we would love to help you, please call (07) 5447 1361 to speak to our friendly team. You can also contact us online.
Tewantin Dental Centre is open every weekday Monday to Friday from 8.00am–5.00pm.
We're looking forward to seeing you soon!