Cosmetic Dentistry

How Do Dental Crowns Work?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its strength, shape, and appearance. Crowns can also be placed on top of dental implants to replace missing teeth, providing a natural-looking and functional solution.

Crowns come in different materials, including porcelain or ceramic, which can be matched to your natural tooth colour. Other options, such as metal alloys or gold, are often used for back teeth because they are extra strong. A combination of porcelain fused to metal is also popular, offering both durability and a natural look.

Your dentist may recommend a crown to:

• Protect a weak tooth from breaking
• Restore a broken or worn-down tooth
• Replace a large filling when not enough natural tooth remains
• Support a dental bridge
• Cover a dental implant
• Improve the appearance of a discoloured or misshapen tooth
• Protect a tooth after root canal treatment

Your dentist will help you choose the best type of crown for your needs based on function, appearance, and durability.

How Do Dental Bridges Work?

A dental bridge is a solution for replacing one or more missing teeth. Gaps left by missing teeth can cause the surrounding teeth to shift out of place, which may affect your bite and lead to problems like gum disease or jaw discomfort.

A bridge fills the gap by using the healthy teeth on either side for support. These supporting teeth, called abutments, are fitted with crowns, and the replacement tooth (pontic) is securely attached to them. If needed, dental implants can also be used to support a bridge.

Bridges come in different materials, including porcelain or ceramic, which can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth. Your dentist will help you choose the best option based on the location of the missing tooth, its function, appearance, and cost.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made porcelain shells that are bonded to the front of your natural teeth to enhance their appearance. They can be used to correct a range of cosmetic concerns, such as discolouration, chips, gaps, or uneven teeth, giving you a brighter and more uniform smile.

Since veneers are a permanent treatment, it’s important to consider both the benefits and potential drawbacks before deciding if they’re right for you. Your dentist will discuss your options and help you make an informed choice.

Composite Veneers

In addition to porcelain veneers, composite veneers are another option. These are made from a tooth-coloured resin material and can be applied directly to the teeth in a single visit. While they are generally more affordable and involve less tooth preparation, they may not last as long as porcelain veneers and can be more prone to staining over time. Your dentist can advise on the best type of veneer for your needs.