Crowns & Bridges

What is a Dental Crown?

A crown is sometimes called a cap as it covers or ‘caps’ a tooth completely. The crown fits tightly over the tooth, extending right down to just below the gum line so none of the original tooth is visible, sealing the tooth and protecting it from decay and infection. Your crown can have a precious metal substructure which is covered up with porcelain or it may be entirely metal-free. All-ceramic crowns provide the very best aesthetic results as they have a similar translucency to natural teeth. The very latest all-ceramic materials are extremely strong and are suitable for crowning back teeth. One Smile also has a CEREC machine which can mill beautiful all-porcelain crowns while you wait.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge will fill in the gap left by one or more missing teeth. The teeth adjacent to the gap are called abutment teeth and must be crowned as these crowns are joined on to the replacement teeth. Your new bridge can be made using a metal substructure covered with porcelain or you may choose an all-ceramic bridge. This is a popular choice for replacing front teeth where aesthetics are most important.

What is the Procedure for Crowns & Bridges?

Your teeth will be shaped and ground down. It is necessary to remove some of your natural tooth structure as otherwise the crowns would appear bulky and unnatural. Once the teeth have been shaped, your dentist will take a detailed impression which is sent to the dental laboratory with your prescription, after which it is returned to the dental surgery for fitting and cementing in position.

How Long Will My Crown or Bridge Last?

Your new crown or bridge should last on average for ten years or more. Good oral hygiene and regular check-ups and professional cleanings will help prolong its life.

For more information, please call us on (03) 9887 4539 in Wantirna South, on (03) 9886 7551 in Glen Waverley and on (03) 8794 9777 in Narre Warren.

Our practices are located at 3 Rezes St, Wantirna South VIC 3152, 228 Springvale Rd, Glen Waverley VIC 3150 and 5/2-8 Victor Cres, Narre Warren VIC 3805.