Crowns and bridges: strong, natural-looking restorations

What are a crown and a bridge?

A crown is a cap that fully surrounds the visible part of a tooth. We recommend it when a tooth is so damaged or weak that a filling could no longer protect it for the long term. The crown restores the shape of the tooth and guards against fracture.

A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth. It rests on the teeth at either end of the gap, or on implants, and crowns are placed on these, with the replacement tooth spanning between them like a bridge. A bridge is fixed – you do not take it out.

Zirconia or porcelain fused to metal?

A zirconia crown is made of a metal-free, very strong ceramic. It lets light through like a natural tooth, and no dark metal line shows at the gum edge. So we mainly recommend it for teeth that show when you smile, but it also suits back teeth.

A porcelain-fused-to-metal crown is made of ceramic fired onto a metal framework. It is a long-used, strong and reliable option, especially for back teeth that take heavy chewing forces.

Which one suits you depends on the position of the tooth, your bite, the shade of the neighbouring teeth and your own wishes. At the consultation we explain both options.

How is it made?

Crowns and bridges are made by Dr Babett Kenyeres, whose main fields are prosthetics and aesthetic dentistry. At the first appointment we prepare the tooth under local anaesthetic: we remove a thin layer all around it and shape a precise margin so that the crown fits tightly against the gum.

Then we take an impression, and you wear a temporary crown while the final restoration is made. The dental technician works from the impression. At the try-in we check the fit, the bite and the shade, and we fix it permanently only when everything is right.

What to expect afterwards

In the first days the tooth may be slightly sensitive to cold and heat, which usually passes quickly. Your tongue and bite also get used to the new crown within a few days. If the bite feels high, let us know and we will adjust it gently at the follow-up.

Aftercare

A crown cannot decay, but the edge of the tooth it fits onto can. So a crowned tooth needs cleaning just like the others:

• brush twice a day and clean between your teeth too;
• under bridges, clean with a floss threader or interdental brushes;
• go for regular check-ups and hygiene visits.

If you grind your teeth at night, tell us. A night guard can help protect the crowns and your own teeth.