What are dental crowns and bridges?

If a tooth is damaged, cracked or broken such that a simple filling or cosmetic bonding is insufficient to repair it, then a dental crown can be employed. This is a protective cover or cap that fits over the damaged tooth, effectively replacing the natural outer layer so restoring the tooth to full use. Up until quite recently, dental crowns were made from porcelain but now the modern material of choice is the stronger and more aesthetically pleasing dental ceramic. Old style porcelain crowns were built on top of a supporting metal base which formed the unsightly black line often seen at the gum line. Stronger modern ceramics avoid this and give an overall better aesthetic result.

If a tooth is damaged beyond repair and it needs to be removed then we can form a bridge using the same process as a crown.