Crowns & Bridges

Strength, hardness and stain resistant

Crowns

The outside of each tooth is made of enamel, which is extremely hard. Although teeth are strong and difficult to break, trauma (such as a fall) may chip or break them.

Tooth decay may severely weaken a tooth, with a high risk that the tooth may fall apart.

Root canal treatment, where the pulp of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels is removed, can also weaken a tooth, especially if it has large fillings.

Teeth may also wear down over time. An artificial crown is often the best way to save a tooth and strengthen it. It fits over the prepared existing tooth and replaces the natural crown.

Bridges

Bridges replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of an artificial tooth anchored to the adjacent natural teeth. If a tooth is lost through an accident, or is too badly decayed to save with a crown, a bridge may be the treatment of choice.

Crowns and bridges are often made of porcelain and metal alloy. Porcelain is strong and can be made to match the colour of the natural teeth. It is resistant to straining and can be cleaned if it becomes stained. Metal alloy is used for its strength, hardness and durability.