What is a Crown?
A crown is a custom made artificial tooth that sits on top of a natural tooth (or implant) to strengthen and protect it from further damage. The tooth is trimmed and shaped carefully for the crown to fit in. If the tooth is not strong enough, a post is inserted into the root of the tooth for extra support.
A crown is often recommended for severely chipped, broken or cracked teeth due to tooth decay or large fillings. It might also be required after root canal treatment or age related wear and tear. Crowns can last for more than 10 years as long as they are well looked after with proper oral hygiene and dietary habits and regular dental check-ups.
What is a Bridge?
A bridge contains several crowns joined together to replace missing teeth. The bridge is often recommended when the teeth surrounding the missing ones are also heavily filled and when implants and dentures are not an option. The teeth adjacent to the missing ones are shaped smaller and stand as anchorage for the bridge.
What is a Veneer?
Veneers are thin porcelain layers that are glued to the front of teeth. They can be used to improve the appearance of discoloured or chipped teeth. The front of the tooth is made slightly thinner and then an impression is taken. At your next appointment, the veneer is cemented in.
Each of these options has pros and cons which your dentist will discuss and give you their professional recommendation for your individual tooth and surrounding teeth.
We only use an Australian Prosthetic Laboratory
The Crowns, Veneers and Bridges are all made by a Prosthetist. The Prosthetist uses the photos and shades taken by the Dentist to design and create an aesthetic match to your existing teeth. The materials used can include ceramic, porcelain or ceramic/porcelain fused to metal materials such as gold and other metals.
Adentica Dentists only use Australian Prosthetic Laboratories to ensure the crown, veneer or bridge you are investing in meets strict Australian guidelines and the metals used are appropriate. It also provides us with an opportunity to talk with the Prosthetist directly and discuss your case to ensure the best result.
