Crowns and Bridges
Protecting natural teeth is an essential part of comprehensive dentistry. When teeth begin to break down or are lost altogether, prompt treatment with the proper restoration is beneficial and can improve future oral health.
Two of the most common dental restorations we use at North Brisbane Dental Clinic include dental crowns and bridges in North Brisbane and Wooloowin, QLD.
Dental Crowns Protect and Restore Teeth
When the enamel that protects teeth is damaged by dental decay or fractures, it can compromise the structure of a tooth. If you have a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy, it will also be left more brittle and prone to fractures than other teeth. A dental crown completely covers the tooth structure above the gumline and provides improved stability by absorbing the force from chewing.
Dental crowns are available in various materials, including gold and metal blends; however, many patients prefer porcelain tooth-coloured options, especially on front teeth. Porcelain crowns are durable and blend naturally amongst existing teeth. Our dental team can help you choose which types of crowns meet your needs and goals.
What Can I Expect from a Dental Crown Procedure?
In the right hands, having a dental crown placed is entirely painless. Patient comfort is important to us. Our team of highly skilled and experienced dentists approach dentistry with a gentle and compassionate chairside manner. We offer nitrous oxide sedation for patients who feel anxious about their procedure.
After administering the anaesthetic, your Wooloowin dentist will remove all decay, bacteria, and damaged tooth structure and take a 3-D scan to fabricate a custom dental crown. You may also require a dental crown after root canal treatment.
CEREC Same-Day Crowns in Brisbane
North Brisbane Dental Clinic has an on-site dental laboratory, so we can often make your crown in a matter of hours using CAD/CAM technology. If you are having a same-day crown (CEREC crown), you will have two appointments on the same day. The first will be for the preparation of your tooth and 3D scan. Then you'll return approximately 2 hours later to have the crown fitted. It will be permanently bonded to your tooth and adjusted for a comfortable fit.
Not every case is suitable for same-day crowns in Brisbane. We still use external laboratories for some instances, and your dentist will advise if this applies to you. If we need to have your crown or bridge fabricated off-site, you will be fitted with a temporary crown/bridge while awaiting your permanent restoration.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Dental crowns require the same care as natural teeth – brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings will help you get the most out of your dentistry. Practising good oral hygiene is always encouraged, whether you have natural teeth, false teeth or restorations.
Dental Bridges Replace Missing Teeth
Tooth loss makes eating and speaking a challenge, not to mention the adverse effect it could have on your appearance. Often, patients opt for a dental bridge to fill the gap left after tooth loss or extraction. Dental bridges are a fixed option, meaning they are not removable like a partial denture or complete dentures. Bridges use crowns on adjacent teeth on either side of the gap.
As with dental crowns, dental bridges come in aesthetic porcelain options to match surrounding teeth. Your Brisbane dentists can determine which type of dental bridge is best for you. Some bridges we offer include fixed bridges and cantilever bridges.
How Do Dental Bridges Work?
Two dental crowns on healthy, adjacent teeth hold an artificial tooth in place. A bridge keeps the surrounding and opposing teeth from shifting toward the space, which can create occlusal (bite) problems and gum disease.
Dental bridges do not replace the root of the tooth like dental implants but provide a reliable alternative when dental implants are not possible.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
The process of making a porcelain bridge is much the same as having a crown. The only difference is that instead of prepping one tooth for the porcelain, we prepare two teeth, one on either side of your missing tooth. When the bridge is glued into place, it is one solid piece of porcelain, but it looks and functions like three separate teeth.
Caring for Dental Bridges 
Since a dental bridge has an artificial tooth that sits directly above the gums, they require special care to keep them clean. Specialty floss and small brushes designed to help patients care for their dental bridges can make the oral care process more effortless.
Contact Us to Book a Visit to Your North Brisbane Dentist
Our conscientious practitioners will help you determine the best way to achieve your optimal oral health and protect your teeth. Our dental clinic, located in Wooloowin, always has room for more smiling faces.
