A crown is a cap that covers a tooth completely, holding together one that's cracked, heavily filled or root-treated so it can stand up to normal chewing again. A bridge uses the teeth on either side of a gap to carry a replacement tooth, filling the space without surgery.
When You Might Need a Crown or Bridge
- ✓A tooth that's cracked, broken, or worn down
- ✓A tooth that's been root canal treated, particularly a back tooth
- ✓A filling so large there isn't much natural tooth left to hold it
- ✓A tooth that keeps chipping or where fillings repeatedly come loose
- ✓A single missing tooth, with healthy teeth either side to support a bridge
- ✓A discoloured or misshapen front tooth that a veneer can't correct
Choosing Your Crown Material
Different materials suit different teeth. We'll talk you through the right one for your case at the consultation.
| Material | Appearance | Strength | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full metal | Gold or silver metallic | Strongest, and kindest to the tooth opposite | Back molars that don't show when you smile |
| PFM (porcelain fused to metal) | Tooth-coloured over a metal core | Very strong | A dependable all-rounder; a thin dark line can appear at the gum over the years |
| Zirconia | Tooth-coloured, slightly more opaque | Extremely strong, resists chipping | Back teeth, and anyone who grinds |
| E-max | The most natural and lifelike | Strong, though not to zirconia's level | Front teeth, where appearance matters most |
| Zirconia with porcelain | Natural, layered for depth | Zirconia core with a porcelain surface | Where you want front-tooth looks with back-tooth strength |
For a missing tooth, we also offer a fibre-reinforced bridge — a metal-free option that needs less of the neighbouring teeth to be trimmed than a conventional bridge.
Common Questions
How long do crowns and bridges last?
Well looked after, commonly 10–15 years and often longer. What usually fails isn't the crown but the tooth underneath, so brushing, flossing under the bridge and regular check-ups matter.
How many visits does it take?
Two. At the first we prepare the tooth, take an impression and make you a temporary crown on the spot, so you leave with the tooth covered and can eat and smile normally. At the second, once the lab has made the permanent crown, we fit it.
Why can't I just have a big filling instead?
A filling sits inside the tooth, so a large one leaves thin walls that can split. A crown wraps over the whole tooth and holds it together — the difference between patching a wall and putting a roof on it.
Bridge or implant for a missing tooth?
A bridge is quicker, needs no surgery, and is usually less expensive, but the teeth either side have to be trimmed to carry it. An implant stands on its own and leaves the neighbours untouched, though it takes longer and costs more.
Will it look natural?
Yes. We shade-match to your surrounding teeth, and for front teeth we use materials chosen for how closely they mimic real enamel.
What to Expect
Consultation
Our dentist will assess your condition and explain the procedure in detail.
Preparation
We'll ensure you're comfortable before we begin, including local anaesthetic if needed.
Treatment
The procedure is carried out with care and precision.
Aftercare
We'll give you clear aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up if required.
Book Your Crown or Bridge Consultation
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