Both crowns and most bridges are fixed prosthetic devices. Unlike removable devices such as dentures, which you can take out and clean daily, crowns and bridges are cemented onto existing teeth or implants and can only be removed by a dentist.
How do crowns work?
A crown is used to entirely cover or “cap” a damaged tooth. Besides strengthening a damaged tooth, a crown can be used to improve its appearance, shape or alignment. A crown can also be placed on top of an implant to provide a tooth-like shape and structure for function. Porcelain or ceramic crowns can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth.
Other materials include gold and metal alloys, acrylic and ceramic. These alloys are generally stronger than porcelain and may be recommended for back teeth. Porcelain bonded to a metal shell is often used because it is both strong and attractive.
Your dentist may recommend a crown to:
Replace a large filling when there isn’t enough tooth remaining.
A bridge may be recommended if you’re missing one or more teeth. Gaps left by missing teeth eventually cause the remaining teeth to rotate or shift into empty spaces, resulting in a bad bite. The imbalance caused by missing teeth can also lead to gum disease and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Bridges are commonly used to replace one or more missing teeth. They span the space where the teeth are missing. Bridges are cemented to the natural teeth or implants surrounding the empty space. These teeth, called abutments, serve as anchors for the bridge. A replacement tooth, called a pontic, is attached to the crowns that cover the abutments.
As with crowns, you have a choice of materials for bridges. Your dentist can help you decide which to use based on the location of the missing tooth (or teeth), its function, aesthetic considerations and cost. Porcelain or ceramic bridges can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth.
FAQs
How are crowns and bridges made?
Before either a crown or a bridge can be made, the tooth (or teeth) must be reduced in size so that the crown or bridge will fit over it properly. After reducing the tooth/teeth, your dentist will take an impression to provide an exact mould for the crown or bridge.
If porcelain is to be used, your dentist will determine the correct shade for the crown or bridge to match the colour of your existing teeth.
Using this impression, a dental lab then makes your crown or bridge using the material your dentist specifies. A temporary crown or bridge will be put in place to cover the prepared tooth while the permanent crown or bridge is being made.
When the permanent crown or bridge is ready, the temporary crown or bridge is removed, and the new crown or bridge is cemented over your prepared tooth or teeth.
How long do crowns and bridges last?
While crowns and bridges can last a lifetime, they do sometimes come loose or fall out. The most important step you can take to ensure the longevity of your crown or bridge is to practice good oral hygiene.
A bridge can lose its support if the teeth or bone holding it in place are damaged by dental disease. Keep your gums and teeth healthy by Brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and flossing daily. Also, see your dentist and hygienist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
To prevent damage to your new crown or bridge, avoid chewing hard foods, ice or other hard objects.
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I couldn’t recommend Dr. Ali at Rochester Lodge enough!I recently completed the Invisalign process with Dr. Ali, and he far exceeded my expectations—not just with the amazing results (which I’m thrilled about!) but also with his exceptional manner, patience, and flexibility in accommodating my schedule.He is, without a doubt, the most talented and professional dentist I’ve ever seen.Thank you so much, Dr. Ali!
I see Dr Ghomessi.I cannot stress what a wonderful dentist he is. After 60 years of a phobia of dentists he managed to cure this after a couple of appointments. Now I feel confident in attending and completely trust his expertise. I am of the opinion that he has a particular gift in calming the most anxious patients and would strongly recommend him to any patients who have been traumatised by dentists in the past! I am also of the view that he has the skills to help anxious children. In addition, the work that he has completed for me has been of the highest quality.Jill Bradley - aged 71
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I had the Icon White Spot Treatment here around 2 months ago, and I am still amazed by the results. Dr Ali Ghomeshi was incredibly patient and walked me through the entire process, making sure I was informed every step of the way. The results have exceeded my expectations, and I couldn't be happier I don't regret it! If you're considering the Icon treatment, it's absolutely worth getting.
I am SO happy with the service, results and price for my Invisalign journey at Rochester Lodge. Dr Ali is absolutely fantastic - he really takes time, care and pride with his patients. He thoroughly explained every step of the journey and offered helpful and considered advice when discussing options. I had Invisalign trays for just over 6 months, then opted for teeth whitening and composite bonding to give the desired end result (which by the way, was amazing!). Having had consultations with other Invisalign dentists, I can confidently recommend Dr Ali over other dental surgeries. The reception staff and dental nurses are also amazing - so friendly, efficient and knowledgeable. 5 stars!
I have been a patient of Rochester lodge in Bromley with all my family for many years. The team is very friendly and efficient.The principal Mike is an outstanding dentist who gives our family a great service every time.I also regularly see the hygienist Teresa who makes any one feel relaxed during a deep and thorough cleaning. I can only highly recommend them as a first class Dental practice.
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I would highly recommend Rochester Lodge and in particular, Dr Ghomeshi. I have visited the practise several times for check ups, fillings, composite bonding and whitening. After previous bad experiences with dentists, Ali took the time to understand what is happening with my teeth and used composite bonding to bring the confidence back to my smile - I can’t thank him enough!
