Crowns, Bridges and Veneers
Crowns
Why might you need a crown?
Crowns can be the appropriate solution for damaged, broken or worn teeth.
What is a crown?
Crowns are protective covers, which are fitted over an existing tooth that has been specially shaped to receive it. Full ceramic crowns are strong, stain resistant and aesthetically nearly indistinguishable from natural teeth. However, crowns are not necessarily the first treatment of choice when looking to improve the aesthetics of your teeth. This is because a significant portion of the original tooth needs to be removed in preparation for the crown. Less invasive alternatives such as veneers or dental bonding can be used with strong healthy teeth. Crowns are different from veneers, veneers are thin pieces of porcelain fitted only to the front of the tooth, whereas crowns cover the whole of the tooth.
Bridges
Why might you need a bridge?
If you have a space in your mouth, caused by missing teeth, these can be treated by making a bridge.
What is a bridge?
A bridge is a… The remaining teeth at either side of the spaces can be prepared in a similar fashion to that of crowns. It may be possible to link up the retaining teeth and create teeth that are connected and fixed to these teeth in a non-removable way. In some cases, bridges can be cemented or glued to the retainer teeth so that no drilling is necessary.
Veneers
Why might I need veneers?
If the front surfaces of your teeth are stained or cracked, veneers can be used to mask this. They can, in certain cases, be used to realign teeth or close gaps.
What are veneers?
Veneers can make your teeth look natural and healthy, improving the colour, shape and position of your teeth. They can hide stained, chipped or misshapen teeth and can close gaps where orthodontic treatment may not be suitable. A Veneer is a thin custom-made layer that can be bonded to the front surface of a tooth, usually made from porcelain. Veneers are generally placed only on the front of a tooth, therefore removing less of the original tooth than a crown.
