Skip to main content

Dental Crown and Bridges: 
Restoring Strength, Function and Confidence

If you have a damaged, weakened, or missing tooth, dental crowns and bridges are two reliable and well-established ways to restore your smile. This guide explains what they are, when they’re used, and what to expect from treatment.


A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that fits over a tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Once cemented in place, it fully covers the visible part of the tooth above the gum line.

When is a crown needed?

Crowns are commonly recommended when a tooth is:

  • Severely decayed or weakened
  • Cracked or fractured (e.g. cracked tooth syndrome)
  • Heavily filled with little remaining tooth structure
  • After a root canal treatment
  • Worn down from grinding (bruxism)
  • Misshapen or discoloured
  • Ceramic/Porcelain - Excellent aesthetics, ideal for front teeth
  • Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) - Strong with reasonable aesthetics
  • Gold or metal alloys - Extremely durable, often used for back teeth
  • Zirconia - Very strong and increasingly popular for both front and back teeth

A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It “bridges” the gap by anchoring an artificial tooth (called a pontic) to the natural teeth (or crowns) on either side.


When is a bridge recommended?

A bridge may be suitable if:

  • You have one or more missing teeth
  • The teeth adjacent to the gap are healthy enough to support a crown
  • You want a fixed (non-removable) alternative to dentures

Step-by-Step Overview

  1. Assessment & Planning
        Your dentist examines your teeth, takes X-rays, and discusses the best treatment option.
  2. Tooth Preparation
      • For crowns: the tooth is shaped to allow the crown to fit
      • For bridges: the supporting teeth are prepared
  3. Impressions or Digital Scan
        A precise model of your teeth is taken to create a custom restoration.
  4. Temporary Crown/Bridge
         A temporary restoration is placed while your final one is made.
  5. Fitting & Cementation
        The final crown or bridge is checked for fit, comfort, and appearance before being permanently cemented.

With good care, crowns and bridges can last 10–15 years or longer. Longevity depends on:

  • Oral hygiene habits
  • Diet (avoiding excessive hard or sticky foods)
  • Grinding/clenching habits
  • Regular dental check-ups

Depending on your situation, alternatives may include:

  • Dental implants (replace missing teeth without affecting neighbours)
  • Removable dentures (a more affordable option for multiple missing teeth)
  • Onlays or large fillings (for less severely damaged teeth)

Book An Appointment Today