Crowns and bridges
Sometimes a tooth is weakened to the point where a crown is needed to protect it and help it last as long as possible. This may follow root canal treatment, a fracture or a very large filling. If the remaining walls of the tooth are weak, the dentist may recommend a crown.
A crown is placed over a tooth. The tooth is prepared by reshaping it, and its root must be healthy.
Conventional bridges
A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth. It is supported by two or more abutments: prepared teeth on either side of the gap. These teeth receive crowns, with an artificial tooth, called a pontic, between them to fill the space left by the missing tooth.
Resin-bonded bridges
A missing tooth can also be replaced by bonding an artificial tooth to the neighbouring teeth. These neighbouring teeth require only minimal preparation.
A resin-bonded bridge can be made from composite or porcelain, sometimes with a metal supporting structure. A composite bridge can be made directly at the chair in a single appointment. A porcelain bridge is resistant to staining and wear and is made by our dental technician. Impressions are needed so that the technician can make it to measure.