Dental crowns and bridges are two of the most frequently recommended restorative procedures in dentistry. Despite being common, many patients aren't entirely sure when they're needed or what the process involves. This guide covers everything clearly.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A crown is a tooth-shaped ceramic cap that fits over a prepared natural tooth, covering it down to the gum line on all sides. Think of it as a helmet for a tooth. Once cemented in place, it becomes the new outer surface of the tooth.
When Is a Crown Needed?
Crowns are recommended when a tooth is:
- Cracked or broken - a crown holds the pieces together and prevents the crack from progressing
- Severely decayed - when decay is too extensive for a filling to adequately restore the tooth
- Weakened after root canal treatment - root-treated teeth become more brittle and prone to fracture; a crown protects them
- Worn down - from grinding (bruxism) or acid erosion
- Heavily filled - when more than half the tooth structure is existing filling, a crown is more stable
- Severely discoloured or misshapen - where appearance cannot be adequately improved with veneers or whitening
What Materials Are Used?
Modern crowns are typically made from:
| Material | Appearance | Strength | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full porcelain (e-max) | Excellent - very natural | Good | Front teeth |
| Zirconia | Excellent | Excellent | Back teeth, heavy grinders |
| Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) | Good | Very good | Any position |
| Gold/metal | Poor | Excellent | Back teeth (less visible) |
Zirconia has become the material of choice for most modern crowns due to its combination of natural appearance and excellent strength. For front teeth, high-translucency porcelain (e-max) is often preferred for the most lifelike look.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A bridge is a fixed replacement for one or more missing teeth. It consists of:
- Abutment crowns - crowns placed on the teeth on either side of the gap
- Pontic - an artificial tooth suspended between the abutment crowns, filling the space
The bridge is made as one connected unit, permanently cemented to the abutment teeth. It doesn't come out. It looks and functions like natural teeth.
When Is a Bridge Appropriate?
A bridge is a reasonable solution for replacing a missing tooth when:
- The adjacent teeth on either side of the gap already need crowns
- There isn't sufficient bone volume for an implant
- Cost is a significant consideration (bridges are generally less expensive than implants)
- The patient doesn't want surgery
Bridge vs Implant: Key Comparison
| Feature | Bridge | Implant |
|---|---|---|
| Bone preservation | No - bone under the gap continues to resorb | Yes - implant stimulates bone |
| Adjacent teeth affected | Yes - must be prepared (crowned) | No |
| Cleaning | Special flossing technique needed under pontic | Normal brushing and flossing |
| Lifespan | 10 to 15 years typically | 25+ years |
| Cost (single tooth replacement) | $4,000 to $6,000 for 3-unit bridge | $4,500 to $6,500 for implant + crown |
| Surgery required | No | Yes |
For a single missing tooth, an implant is generally the better long-term solution. A bridge is a good option when circumstances make implant placement impractical.
The Crown Process: What to Expect
Appointment 1: Preparation
Under local anaesthesia, the tooth is shaped to create room for the crown. The amount removed depends on the crown material - zirconia requires slightly more reduction than e-max. An impression (or digital scan) is taken, and a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while your permanent crown is made in the lab.
1 to 2 weeks later: Lab fabrication
Your crown is fabricated by a dental technician, precisely matched to the shape, size, and shade of your natural teeth.
Appointment 2: Fitting
The temporary crown is removed, the permanent crown is checked for fit, colour, and bite, any adjustments are made, and it is permanently cemented. The result should feel completely natural within a day or two.
Caring for Your Crown or Bridge
Crowns and bridges don't decay, but the natural tooth structure underneath can. Decay at the margin (edge) of a crown is the most common reason for crown failure.
- Brush twice daily, making sure to clean along the gum line at the crown margin
- Floss daily - for bridges, a floss threader or water flosser is needed to clean under the pontic
- Avoid biting extremely hard foods (hard lollies, ice, hard nuts) which can chip ceramic
- Attend regular check-ups so your dentist can monitor the crown margins and bite
How Much Do Crowns and Bridges Cost?
Single crown: $1,500 to $2,500 Three-unit bridge: $4,000 to $6,000 (two abutment crowns plus one pontic)
Most health funds with major dental cover contribute a benefit toward crowns. Check your policy for the applicable item code (item 613 for a full ceramic crown). Payment plans are available.
Crowns and Bridges at Serene Family Dental - Ropes Crossing
We use modern ceramic materials including high-strength zirconia and e-max porcelain for our crowns and bridges. Every crown is designed to match your natural teeth and feel completely comfortable.
We see patients from Penrith, Blacktown, Mount Druitt, St Marys, Jordan Springs, Kingswood, St Clair, Glenmore Park and throughout western Sydney.
Book a crown or bridge consultation or call (02) 9053 1995.
