Crowns, Veneers & Bridges
Dental crowns are a method of tooth restoration, where the tooth is prepared and encased by a "shell" or "cap" made from either porcelain, gold or white metal. Crowns are usually recommended in cases where a tooth has been Root Canal treated, or has been heavily compromised by dental decay or breakage. Veneers may also be opted for in cases where a patient is seeking complete restorations for their front teeth.
What to expect at my appointment?
Tooth Preparation
Prior to placing a crown, the tooth must be prepared to accommodate the fit of the crown, dependent on the material chosen. The dentist does this by using dental handpieces to shave the top and margin of the tooth.
Scans & Impressions
Following the preparation, the dentist will take either a scan or molded impression of the tooth, which will be sent to a laboratory for fabrication. This may take up to 2 weeks to return. In the meantime, a temporary crown will be placed.
Crown Placement
Once the crown has been created to suit your exact bite and tooth shade, the crown will be cemented in place, where it will now take on the role of a fully functioning and stable tooth.
Dental Crown, Veneer or Bridge?
Crown
A dental crown is a covering or "cap" made of porcelain, gold or white metal, which encases a tooth. Crowns are usually recommended in the case where a tooth has been root canal treated, discoloured, or requiring a large restoration with minimal tooth structure remaining as a result of decay or breakage. Crowns are fabricated to suit your bite, and take on the appearance of a real tooth.
Veneer
A veneer is a covering that encases the visible surfaces of your tooth or teeth, much similar to a crown. A veneer, however, can be made of porcelain or resin material, and generally requires less preparation of the natural tooth, if at all. Veneers are commonly recommended for cases where patient's want to improve their smile cosmetically, and can be fabricated in a way that suits their natural smile, or improves it, for a full smile makeover.
Bridge
A dental bridge is a crown made of more than one unit, replacing or restoring more than one tooth. A standard crown is placed over an existing tooth, acting as support for a "dummy" tooth that is attached, and fills the space of a missing adjacent tooth. This is a great method at replacing missing teeth with a fixed option, while also strengthening an existing tooth.
