Crowns and bridges are perfect for restoring strength and integrity to a damaged tooth.
Severely damaged or decayed teeth can negatively impact your overall dental structure. If left untreated, initial problems can lead to a myriad of issues including gum disease, tooth breakage, and even tooth loss.
Our natural teeth can become damaged for several reasons; through decay, trauma or disease. Also, as we become older, our teeth may become more brittle and have structural issues due to oral conditions such as tooth decay and bruxism (tooth grinding and clenching during sleep) which can cause chips and cracks.
At Iris Dental, we have a variety of treatments which help with restoring your smile. Two of these are crowns and bridges. Used as an effective means of restoring damaged teeth, they can be a highly successful treatment.
Dental Crowns in Melbourne
Dental crowns (often referred to as ‘dental caps’ or ‘tooth caps’) cover and encase the affected tooth or teeth. They may be fitted to patients who have suffered from a tooth trauma or impact that resulted in chips or breakages.
At Iris Dental, we believe that a crown is one of the most effective options available when attempting to save a tooth which is in need of added strength and security. Made out of porcelain or gold fixtures, crowns aim to strengthen weakened or damaged teeth. The crown fits over the existing tooth, replacing the full exterior, or natural crown. You may initially be given a temporary crown whilst a permanent one is being created.
Crowns are also used for aesthetic reasons when we need to change the shape or colour of a tooth.
Dental Bridges in Melbourne
Similar to a crown, a bridge is a prosthetic option for patients who have lost more than one tooth. It replaces the missing tooth or teeth by ‘bridging’ the gap with an artificial replacement composed of the same material as that of a crown. If you have lost one or more teeth, the two remaining teeth either side of the gap will be prepared for crowns that will anchor the bridge, which consists of one or more prosthetic teeth. Replacing the missing teeth assists with
Bridges could be considered less invasive and simpler to treat patients when compared to dental implants, and often prove more comfortable than dentures.
Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges in Point Cook
Dental crowns and bridges are fitted specifically for your mouth. That means they can be sized, shaped and coloured to fit in with the rest of your mouth. A natural looking crown can blend in with the rest of your teeth, giving a complete appearance. Not to mention, the strength of the prosthetic means it can function nearly as well as a normal tooth.
At Iris Dental, we provide crowns and bridges in Point Cook that are made out of different materials; metal, porcelain, or a combination of both – porcelain-bonded-to-metal crowns.
- Metal alloys have been used for many years in the construction of crowns or fixed bridges. They provide excellent, strong, long-lasting service. May last for 20 years and more, gold or silver colour; moderate-to-high initial cost; may be used in any area where a metal display is not objectionable. Two major types of alloys are available:
- High Noble Metal (including gold, palladium, silver and platinum)
- Base Metal (including nickel, chrome and cobalt).
- Porcelain bonded to metal: The metal alloys mentioned above are used as a base which is then encased with ceramic porcelain to ensure a natural look. May last for 10-20 years; tooth-coloured; moderate-to-high initial cost; should only be used in any area where grinding habits are not present.
- Porcelain crowns – Pure porcelain crowns are now being used more extensively in aesthetic areas; however, anything over a three-unit bridge constructed from ceramic alone is not advisable. May last for 10-20 years; moderate-to-high initial cost; should only be used in any area where grinding habits are not present; used when aesthetics are important.
The type of crown your dentist recommends will depend on the tooth involved and sometimes on your preference. Depending on the size and placement of the crown required, composite crowns can be an option. No matter what option is right for you, the crown or bridge will be designed to complement your tooth’s natural colour and composition.
Depending on the situation, a bridge or a crown should last for approximately ten years, if the supporting teeth stay healthy. It is important though that you maintain regular dental check-ups over this time because if something starts going wrong with the crown it can more easily be corrected at an early stage. If you take care of your dental crowns and bridges properly, they can last many, many years.
Dental Bridges and Dental Crowns Point Cook
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a good candidate for a dental crown?
To be a suitable candidate for a dental crown, an individual should have a tooth that is damaged or decayed beyond the point of being restored with fillings or other dental treatments. The tooth must have enough healthy structure left to support the crown, and the person should practise good oral hygiene. Consulting with a dental professional is crucial to determine the most appropriate treatment and the related costs.
How long should a crown or bridge last?
The lifespan of a crown or bridge can vary depending on several factors, including the materials used, the quality of the placement, the oral hygiene practices of the patient, and the amount of wear and tear the restoration is exposed to.
With proper care and maintenance, a crown or bridge can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or even longer. However, it is not uncommon for a well-cared-for crown or bridge to last for 20 years or more.
Regular dental checkups and cleanings, along with good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing daily, are essential for the longevity of a crown or bridge. Additionally, avoiding hard or sticky foods and not using your teeth as tools can help prevent damage to the restoration.
If you experience any discomfort or notice any signs of damage to your crown or bridge, such as chips or cracks, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible. Prompt attention can help prevent further damage and prolong the lifespan of your restoration.
Can I use a crowned tooth like a natural tooth for eating everything?
A tooth that has been restored with a dental crown can function like a natural tooth for eating and chewing. However, there may be some precautions you need to take to avoid damaging the crown or the underlying tooth structure.
It is important to remember that whilst a dental crown can provide added strength and protection to a damaged or weakened tooth, it is not indestructible. You should avoid biting down on hard objects, such as ice, hard candy, or pens, which can chip or crack the crown. Additionally, if you grind or clench your teeth, you may need to wear a nightguard to protect your crown and prevent further damage.