Crowns and Bridges
Crowns and bridges are fixed dental restorations. A crown covers a single damaged tooth, while a bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by joining to the teeth on either side of the gap. They are used when a tooth is too damaged for a filling, after certain treatments, or when a missing tooth affects biting, speech, or the position of neighbouring teeth.
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What to know about Crowns and Bridges
Planning a crown or a bridge usually involves examining the teeth involved, checking the bite, and taking impressions or scans so the restoration can be made to fit. The supporting teeth are prepared, a temporary restoration may be used while the final one is made, and the finished crown or bridge is fitted and adjusted for comfort.
When a crown or bridge may be needed
- A tooth that is cracked, weakened, or heavily filled
- A missing tooth that affects biting or the look of the smile
- Teeth shifting into a gap left by a missing tooth
- A crown or bridge that feels loose, rough, or uncomfortable
What to do right away for Crowns and Bridges
- Call promptly if a crown or bridge comes loose, breaks, or causes pain
- Avoid biting hard foods on that side until it has been checked
- Keep the area clean with gentle brushing and flossing
- Bring any loose piece with you to the dental visit if you can
How a dentist may help with Crowns and Bridges
- Examine the teeth involved and the bite
- Prepare the supporting teeth and take impressions or scans
- Fit a temporary restoration while the final one is made
- Fit, adjust, and check the final crown or bridge
When to seek urgent care for Crowns and Bridges
Seek urgent care if a crown or bridge breaks and leaves a sharp edge, the tooth underneath is painful, or swelling develops.
Please treat this page as general information about Crowns and Bridges, not medical advice. A dentist who examines you can give advice for your situation.
Related emergency dental help
Helpful guides
See the full Emergency Dental Services list for other urgent topics besides Crowns and Bridges, or Contact Emergency Dentist for general enquiries. For urgent help, call.
Frequently asked questions about Crowns and Bridges
How long does a crown or bridge take to complete?
It usually takes more than one visit, because the restoration is made to fit after the teeth have been prepared.
Can a bridge be removed at home?
No. Bridges are fixed in place. If one feels loose, a dentist should check it.
Do crowns and bridges need special cleaning?
They need regular brushing and cleaning around the edges and underneath a bridge, as a dentist advises.