All your teeth play an essential role in everyday functions such as speaking, chewing and help maintain alignment of other teeth in the mouth. Tooth loss doesn’t necessarily have to occur as you age. But when the loss of a tooth occurs, its replacement is essential to maintain proper oral function. Fortunately, there are options available to correct tooth loss.
A dental crown is a cap that covers a prepared tooth and restores it to its original appearance and prevents further damage or decay.
A dental bridge fills up the gap between two teeth usually created by one or more missing teeth. A bridge is made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth/teeth are fused to these adjacent crowns. Filling the gap where the tooth is missing stops shifting/tilting of the teeth, and can helps to prevent bite problems and gum disease around this area. It protects the integrity of existing teeth and helps to maintain a healthy and functional smile.
Both crowns and bridges can be made on natural teeth or implants, and can be made of a variety of different materials such as gold alloy, resin, porcelain, porcelain-fused metal or Zirconia. Generally, porcelain and Zirconia have the most natural appearance, as these can be made to match your tooth colour. The average life of dental crowns and bridges is between 5 and 15 years. Some crowns lasts longer than 20 years. It is highly dependant upon your habits such as grinding, clenching and diet.
Our dentist will examine your entire mouth and make sure the supporting tooth/teeth are sound with healthy gums surrounding it.
