What it is
A crown covers a tooth entirely to protect and rebuild it. A bridge replaces a missing tooth by joining a replacement to crowns on the adjacent teeth. Both are made in a laboratory or milled digitally and then cemented in place.
Who it may suit
- A tooth that is heavily filled, cracked or worn
- A tooth after root canal treatment
- A single missing tooth with suitable teeth on either side
Signs you may need it
- A large old filling that keeps breaking
- A tooth that hurts when biting
- A visible crack line on a back tooth
How the treatment works
- 1
Assessment
The dentist checks whether the tooth can support a crown and whether a bridge is appropriate.
- 2
Preparation
The tooth is shaped under local anaesthetic and an impression or digital scan is taken.
- 3
Temporary
A temporary restoration protects the tooth while the final one is made.
- 4
Fitting
The final restoration is tried in, checked for fit, bite and shade, and cemented.
Visits and recovery
Usually two or more visits, with a temporary in between. Sensitivity for a short period after preparation is common.
Benefits
- Protects a weakened tooth from further fracture
- Restores chewing and appearance
- A bridge is fixed in place rather than removable
Limitations
- A bridge requires reshaping the supporting teeth
- Crowns and bridges have a finite lifespan and may need replacing
- The underlying tooth can still decay at the margins
Risks to be aware of
Every dental procedure carries some risk. Your dentist will discuss these with you in person, based on your own examination and X-rays.
- Sensitivity or, occasionally, nerve inflammation after preparation
- Chipping of ceramic materials
- Decay or gum disease under a poorly cleaned restoration
Aftercare
- Clean under a bridge daily using the aid your dentist recommends
- Avoid biting very hard objects
- Report any looseness promptly
- Attend regular check-ups so margins can be monitored
When to contact the clinic
- The crown or bridge feels loose or lifts
- Persistent sensitivity or pain around the restored tooth
