Dental crowns and bridges are two of the most dependable restorations in dentistry. They restore teeth that can no longer be repaired with a filling, and replace missing teeth in a way that looks natural, feels stable, and allows you to eat and speak with confidence.
A crown is a custom-made cap that fits over an entire tooth, encasing it from the gumline up. It restores the shape, size, strength, and appearance of a tooth that has been compromised — whether by a large cavity, fracture, root canal treatment, or significant wear. Bridges use one or more crowns on neighbouring teeth as anchors to suspend a false tooth (or pontic) across a gap where a tooth is missing.
When a crown is recommended
After root canal therapy to protect and strengthen the treated tooth
When a tooth is cracked and at risk of splitting further
When a tooth has too little structure remaining to hold a filling securely
To cover a severely discoloured or misshapen tooth
As part of a dental implant restoration
Materials used
Crowns and bridges are fabricated from several materials, each with different aesthetic and functional properties:
Porcelain or ceramic: The most natural-looking option. Ideal for front teeth where appearance is the priority.
Porcelain fused to metal (PFM): Combines the strength of a metal substructure with a tooth-coloured outer layer. Suitable for both front and back teeth.
Zirconia: Extremely strong and tooth-coloured. An increasingly popular choice for both front and back teeth due to its durability and aesthetics.
Gold or metal alloys: Rarely used for visible teeth but exceptionally durable for back molars where bite forces are highest.
The treatment process
Crown and bridge treatment typically involves two appointments. At the first, the tooth or teeth are prepared, an impression or digital scan is taken, and a temporary restoration is placed while your permanent crown is crafted in a dental laboratory. At the second appointment, the temporary is removed, the permanent restoration is checked for fit, colour, and bite, and then cemented into place.
With proper care, crowns and bridges last between 10 and 20 years or longer. Regular cleaning, avoiding biting hard objects, and maintaining consistent dental check-ups all extend the life of your restoration significantly.
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