Dental Crowns
A crown is like a sleeve made of metal or porcelain, or both, that goes over a damaged or weak tooth. Crowns are carefully designed to look like natural teeth and are used either when extensive damage has occurred or to replace large unattractive metal fillings.
Before we can place your new crown the original tooth will need to be prepared. This will involve removing any old fillings and grinding the tooth down under a local anaesthetic. This will make space for the crown to sit level with your other teeth. Once the original tooth is suitably prepared an impression will be taken and used to manufacture your crown.
The crown should last for many years, depending on the health of the tooth underneath, and on how you look after your mouth.
Dental CrownsDental Bridges
Bridges use the stability from existing teeth to replace missing ones.
Bridges are usually made of a precious metal. If the bridge will show, porcelain is then bonded to the base. Sometimes, there are other non-precious metals used in the base for strength.
Although a bridge may seem costly they can be a wise investment that will give many years of good service. It will also improve your appearance and bite. A bridge uses the considerable skill of the dentist and technician, and in this way, it’s similar to ordering a piece of hand-made jewellery.
You will need to clean your bridge every day, to prevent problems such as bad breath and gum disease. You also have to clean under the false tooth every day. Your dentist or hygienist will show you how to use a bridge needle or special floss, as a normal toothbrush cannot reach.
Dental BridgesWhite Fillings
For aesthetic reasons, many people now opt for composite resin (tooth coloured) fillings.
You may need a filling for various reasons. Most often it is because of a decay in the tooth, however excessive biting of fingernails or grinding of the teeth can cause wear. They can also be damaged by hard food items or when biting on hard objects.
