Crowns and Bridges
One of the most efficient and popular solutions to restore a tooth back to its full function and natural appearance is a dental crown. Made from high-grade porcelain they are designed to encase a single tooth, a crown is placed when damage or decay is too extensive for a filling or onlay to be used successfully.

There are various situations where a crown provides the perfect solution including; the fracture of a tooth where much of the tooth has been lost or needed to be removed, extensive tooth decay or if you have undergone root canal therapy.

Placement of a crown is the final restoration process after receiving a dental implant when replacing a missing tooth. Although mainly used for reconstructive purposes, crowns are becoming increasingly utilised in cosmetic dental procedures to achieve your exquisite new smile.

Where a crown is used to restore a single tooth, a bridge is a popular choice for replacing one or several missing teeth. In addition to replacing missing teeth to restore your smile, a bridge prevents your adjacent and opposing teeth from moving into the vacant space and out of alignment. A bridge is held in place by crowns secured to natural teeth on either side of the space.

To ensure the long-term success of your treatment, a thorough examination is conducted and careful preparation taken prior to receiving your crown or bridge. Receiving a crown or bridge can often be completed in two appointment visits.

The first step in preparing for your crown or bridge is to reshape the teeth receiving them so once they are placed, they blend seamlessly with your surrounding and opposing teeth, they are also colour matched for a completely natural look. For your total comfort this is done under local anaesthetic.

Once prepared, a detailed mould is made and your replacement teeth are shaped in a dental laboratory ensuring and exact match, this may take between one – two weeks. During this time we can place temporary crown or bridge enabling you to retain a full smile and function.

At your next appointment, your temporary teeth are removed and your new permanent teeth are secured and polished to a tooth-like lustre.

It is vitally important to implement and adhere to a stringent at home care routine and schedule regular checkup appointments with the team from smile@norwest to ensure the longevity of your crown or bridge. Although your new teeth are porcelain, your natural teeth and surrounding gum tissue are still susceptible to the effects of decay and gum disease.