Dental Crowns & Bridges
Restore damaged, weakened or missing teeth with a natural-looking solution designed to improve strength, function and appearance.
Restore Strength
Protect weakened teeth
Natural Appearance
Designed to blend naturally
Restore & Protect
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that covers the whole visible part of a tooth. It can help strengthen a weakened tooth, restore its shape and improve its appearance.
Crowns can be used on teeth that have been damaged or weakened, as well as teeth that have had root canal treatment. Depending on the tooth and its position, different materials may be considered, including ceramic, porcelain, metal or combinations of these.
When a Crown May Help
Why might you need a crown?
Your dentist can assess your tooth and recommend whether a crown is appropriate for your individual situation.
Strengthen a weakened tooth
A crown can help protect and restore a tooth that has been significantly weakened or damaged.
Improve appearance
Crowns can change the shape and colour of a tooth while restoring its overall appearance.
After root canal treatment
Some teeth that have undergone root canal treatment may benefit from additional protection with a crown.
Restore function
Restoring the shape of a damaged tooth can help you return to comfortable everyday function.
Replace a damaged restoration
A new crown may sometimes be considered when an existing restoration needs to be replaced.
Personalised treatment
The most suitable crown material and approach depends on your tooth, bite, position and individual needs.
The Process
Getting a dental crown
Dental crown treatment will usually involve two appointments.
First Appointment
Prepare & plan
The tooth is prepared and an impression is taken so the dental laboratory can create the permanent crown. A temporary crown is fitted while your permanent restoration is being made.
Second Appointment
Fit & secure
Once your permanent crown is ready, the temporary crown is removed. The new crown is checked for fit and comfort before being permanently secured.
The laboratory stage will usually take around two weeks, although timing can vary depending on the restoration and laboratory requirements.
Replacing Missing Teeth
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge can be used to fill a space where one or more teeth are missing. It is a fixed replacement supported by teeth on either side of the gap.
The supporting teeth are prepared for crowns, with artificial teeth spanning the space between them. Replacing a missing tooth can also help prevent surrounding teeth from shifting or rotating into the gap.
How a bridge is made
Preparation & impression
The supporting teeth are prepared and an impression is taken for the laboratory.
Temporary bridge
A temporary bridge can be fitted while the permanent bridge is being made.
Final bridge
The permanent bridge is checked for fit before being securely bonded into place.
Looking after your crown or bridge
Crowns and bridges can provide many years of service when combined with good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
Brush & clean regularly
Maintain good oral hygiene
Attend regular check-ups
FAQs
Dental Crown Questions
How long can a dental crown last?+
Crowns can last many years, but their lifespan varies depending on factors such as oral hygiene, biting forces, the tooth involved and regular dental care.
What materials are dental crowns made from?+
Depending on your needs, crowns may be made from materials such as ceramic, porcelain, metal or porcelain bonded to a metal base. Your dentist can discuss the most appropriate option for your tooth.
How long does crown treatment take?+
Crown treatment will usually involve two appointments. The permanent crown is made by the laboratory between appointments, with the final appointment used to check and secure the restoration.
Can a crown be placed after root canal treatment?+
Yes. A crown can be used on a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment when additional protection and restoration are appropriate.
How long can a dental bridge last?+
A bridge can last many years, depending on oral hygiene, the supporting teeth, biting forces and regular professional care.
Will a crown or bridge look natural?+
Modern restorative materials can be selected and colour-matched to create a natural-looking result. Your dentist will discuss the available options with you.
Ready to restore your smile?
Talk to our team about whether a dental crown or bridge could be the right option for you.