Our Services / Crowns & Bridges

What are crowns?

A dental crown (cap) is a replacement for the top of your tooth. Crowns are available in various materials, including gold, porcelain, and porcelain fused with metal. Porcelain crowns are typically more popular as they make the best match for natural teeth.

Reasons for having a crown include:

• Damaged or decayed teeth unsuitable for fillings
• Protecting a tooth with structural damage or after a root canal
• Anchoring and fixing a dental bridge
• Completing dental implants
• Improving the look of misshapen teeth
• Strengthening a weak or fractured tooth
• Supporting extensive fillings

For one or more missing teeth, a bridge is an option.

What is a bridge?

A bridge is a permanent restoration that replaces missing teeth. The bridge fills the space between two natural teeth, attaching to either the teeth on either side or a dental implant.

Crowns that fit on the healthy teeth on either side anchor the bridge in place, holding it firmly for many years. They look and feel like your other teeth, so you don't have to be self-conscious when you smile.

The Arden Dental Group team might recommend a dental bridge to:

• Help you speak and chew normally
• Reduce excess stress on your bite
• Improve the shape of your face
• Replace a removable partial denture you no longer want
• Prevent your natural teeth from moving
• Enhance your smile

Your dentist at Arden Dental Group can help you decide whether a crown or a bridge is the right choice for you.

How are crowns and bridges fitted?

Fitting crowns and bridges requires correct tooth preparation. 

For crowns, your dentist removes any damaged or diseased parts of your teeth, then reshapes the remaining tooth material so the crown will fit.

If you're having a bridge attached to a dental implant, you need to undergo a procedure to implant the post that secures the bridge in place after the removal of your teeth. If you're having a traditional bridge, the teeth on either side of the gap (known as abutment teeth) also need shaping to support the crowns.

You wear a temporary crown or bridge while the specialist dental lab is making permanent restorations according to your precise tooth impressions. When they're ready, your dentist puts them in place, ensuring they're a perfect fit.

To find out how you could benefit from a crown or bridge, call Arden Dental Group today or book an appointment online.