Crowns are used to strengthen the tooth and restore its function and improve its appearance.
Teeth are naturally covered by the toughest substance/tissues in the body called enamel. This Enamel can sometimes be weakened or damaged by trauma, tooth decay, large fillings, Root Canal Treatment and age-related wear and tear.
Crowns can be made of ceramic or metal alloys. Ceramic crowns can be made to match the colour of your natural teeth. A metal crown may be recommended for the molar teeth where the chewing forces can be much higher. Your dentist at MP Dental will recommend the crown that is best for you.
A Crown may be recommended by our dentists at MP Dental when
• The amount of filling/fillings on a tooth is greater than remaining natural tooth
• There is a risk of breaking teeth or teeth that are already broken
• To restore an implant with a tooth
• A tooth is discoloured or to improve the shape of a tooth
• A tooth has had Root Canal Treatment
• A bridge needs support from adjacent teeth
The cost of a Crown depends on the type of material used. Even though the initial cost may seem expensive it is less expensive when the cost of repairs and replacing white or silver fillings in the long term are considered.
As the name suggests a Dental Bridge closes the gap caused by one or more missing teeth. A fake tooth or teeth to close the gap is attached to crowns on adjacent teeth for support.
Like Crowns, Bridges can be made of ceramic, metal alloys or a combination of both. We will provide you with all the information and help you in making the right choice.
A Bridge maybe recommended as a fixed replacement option to replace missing teeth. It has the advantage of being fixed and unlike dentures a bridge does not have to be removed for cleaning. It may also be offered as an alternative to partial dentures or implants.
The tooth will be examined, and an x-ray may be taken to confirm its health. Tooth will be prepared to make room for the crown or bridge. A mould will be made and sent to the lab. A temporary Crown or Bridge will be placed until the permanent replacement arrives from the lab. At the second visit the permanent crown or bridge is cemented.
In people who tend to gag we can use an intra-oral digital scanner. The scanner is compact and fast.
As with any dental or medical procedure there are risks and complications associated with Crown and Bridge treatment. Although uncommon some of these include tooth breakage, infection or accidental exposure of the nerve, pain or sensitivity and altered feeling. These complications arise since the teeth requiring crown and bridge work are already compromised due to the initially mentioned reasons.