Question 1

What is a dental crown?

Accepted Answer

A dental crown is a full-coverage restoration that fits over a natural tooth. Crowns are used to protect weak or heavily filled teeth and can also improve the appearance of a damaged or worn tooth.

Question 2

When is a crown recommended?

Accepted Answer

A crown may be recommended if a tooth is cracked, weakened, heavily filled, or requires added protection after treatment. Your Geelong dentist will assess your tooth and explain whether a crown is the best option for your situation.

Question 3

What is the dental crown process?

Accepted Answer

To place a crown, the tooth is carefully shaped to allow room for the restoration. An impression is then taken and sent to a dental laboratory where your custom crown is made. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the final crown is being prepared. Once ready, the final crown is securely fitted at our Geelong dental clinic.

Dental crown treatment usually requires two visits.

Question 4

What types of dental crowns are available?

Accepted Answer

The type of crown recommended will depend on the tooth involved and your circumstance. Crown types include porcelain crowns, porcelain-bonded-to-metal crowns (which combine the appearance of the tooth coloured material with the strength of metal) and gold alloy crowns. Occasionally with back teeth a gold crown will be recommended if you do not have a preference.

Question 5

What is a dental bridge?

Accepted Answer

A dental bridge is a fixed dental appliance used to replace one or more missing teeth. It uses neighbouring teeth to support the replacement tooth or teeth, restoring function and appearance.

Question 6

How do dental bridges work?

Accepted Answer

A bridge usually consists of two crowns placed on the teeth on either side of the gap, known as abutment teeth, with one or more replacement teeth fixed between them. These replacement teeth are called pontics.

Question 7

What types of dental bridges are available?

Accepted Answer

Dental bridges can be made using a range of materials, including gold alloy, zirconia, and porcelain. All-ceramic bridges are also available and contain no metal. In some cases, an enamel-bonded bridge, also known as a Maryland bridge, may be suitable.

Question 8

When is a dental bridge recommended?

Accepted Answer

A dental bridge may be recommended to replace a missing tooth, especially when the surrounding teeth already have large fillings or have undergone root canal treatment. Bridges help prevent nearby teeth from shifting out of position and are often preferred over removable partial dentures.