Restoring strength and replacing teeth
Crowns and bridges
When a tooth needs more support, or you want to replace a missing tooth, a crown or bridge may be one of the options worth considering.
Arrange an assessmentUnderstanding your care
Understand what your tooth needs.
A crown covers a tooth to rebuild its shape and provide support where a smaller repair may not be enough. A bridge replaces a missing tooth or teeth using support from neighbouring teeth or implants. Choosing the right approach means looking at the remaining tooth structure, gum health and bite, as well as your priorities. We will discuss the benefits, limitations and alternatives with you.
This may help with
Rebuilding a heavily damaged or restored tooth
Protecting selected teeth after root canal treatment
Replacing a missing tooth where a bridge is suitable
Reviewing an existing crown or bridge
What to expect
Careful planning, preparation and fitting.
Choose an appropriate option
We assess the teeth and supporting tissues, discuss alternatives and explain the proposed materials, treatment stages and estimate.
Prepare and take records
If you proceed, any necessary preparation is carried out and a scan or impression records the shape needed for the restoration. A temporary restoration may be used.
Fit and maintain
We check the fit, appearance and bite before securing the crown or bridge. You will receive advice on cleaning around it and ongoing reviews.
Common questions
Useful things to know.
How is a crown different from a filling?
A filling repairs an area within a tooth; a crown covers it more extensively. A crown may be considered where a filling would not provide enough support, but it is not the right choice for every tooth.
Will the neighbouring teeth need reshaping for a bridge?
It depends on the design. Some bridges involve preparing supporting teeth, while others use a bonded wing. Your dentist will explain which options are suitable and how they affect the neighbouring teeth.
Are there alternatives to a bridge?
Depending on your mouth, alternatives may include a denture, an implant or leaving the space. We will help you compare the implications of each.
Is a crown always needed after root canal treatment?
No. The recommendation depends on the tooth, how much structure remains and the forces on it. Your dentist will explain whether a crown or another restoration is appropriate.
How do I look after a crown or bridge?
Continue cleaning your teeth and gums carefully. Bridges need cleaning around and beneath the replacement tooth; we will show you suitable methods. The supporting teeth can still develop decay or gum problems.