Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are either metal, porcelain or ceramic – they act as natural-looking caps that fit over the visible part of your tooth if it is broken, decayed or weak. Unlike fillings, crowns restore strength to your entire tooth, rather than just a portion of it – they are an effective way to improve the functionality and appearance of your teeth.
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First, we prepare your tooth by gently removing any existing fillings and polishing it to an appropriate shape whilst you are comfortable under local anaesthetic. Then, we’ll take impressions and/or digital scans to make sure the crown matches your teeth perfectly and place a temporary version whilst we create your permanent one. If cared for correctly, crowns can last for up to 15 years.
Dental Bridges
Bridges close gaps in your smile by replacing a missing tooth with an artificial one - a fixed, permanent solution. The prosthetic tooth is bonded to your natural teeth on either side and in some cases, to only one tooth, creating a stable anchor. There are various Bridge types which are traditionally made from metal and covered in porcelain. However, we are now able to make them in ceramic - providing both enhanced strength and aesthetics. This ensures a natural, subtle appearance.
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Bridges can also replace more than one missing tooth as an alternative to removable, partial dentures, although this depends on the strength of the teeth on either side of the gap.
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Bridge treatment is a two-step process; at your first appointment, we will prepare your surrounding teeth and take impressions and/or digital scans to create your prosthetic tooth. Approximately two weeks are required for your bridge to be fabricated, at which point we will see you again to attach your bridge. If you clean your bridge thoroughly, undertake regular professional hygiene therapy and avoid certain foods, it can last for up to 15 years.