Dental Crowns and Bridges
The procedure involves removing a small amount of tooth enamel from around the tooth creating base for the new porcelain crown to be permanently secured.
A dental bridge is a similar process but done to replace missing tooth or teeth. The bridge consists of an artificial porcelain tooth anchored to two crowns in the teeth each side of the gap.
| Crowns and Bridges are usually made of porcelain and gold alloy. The porcelain is matched to the shade of your natural teeth. The gold base is used for strength and durability. |
The procedure usually involves 2 visits:
1st visit: an upper and lower impression mould will be taken and used as a master impression. The tooth is shaped and measured and another impression is taken and sent to the dental ceramist. temporary dental crown is fitted to the tooth at the end f the appointment to protect the prepared tooth.
2nd visit: 2-3 weeks after the initial appointment. There is no drilling needed in the visit, the temporary crown is removed and the permanent crown is seated. It is checked to see if the colour is correct and that it feels comfortable when you bite. Once all is perfect, the crown or bridge is bonded to the teeth with a dental bonding agent.
Hygiene and care: Crowns and bridges should last for many years, research suggests approximately 12 years. Regular dental check-ups and preventive care appointments are essential. Your hygienist will show you how to care for your crown or bridge.
Possible side effects: As with any dental or medical treatment, crown and bridge work has risks.
Infection of the pulp or gums: Infection may affect the teeth in two places; in the soft tissue inside the tooth, called the pulp or in the gums around the base of the teeth. Whenever enamel is removed, there is a small risk the underlying pulp may die and become infected. If this occurs, the tooth may need root canal therapy.
Altered feeling: if the size of a tooth feels it has changed even slightly when biting please advise your dentist as minor adjustments may be required.
Loose dental crown or bridge: A correctly fitted dental bridge should feel secure. A crown may be dislodged by a strong force, an accident or blow to the face. If this happens, the crown can be cleaned, disinfected and re-bonded into place.