Crowns and bridges are often mentioned together, and patients aren’t always sure which one they’ve been offered or why. They solve different problems. Here’s the difference, and the questions worth asking.
So the first question isn’t really crown or bridge, but whether the tooth can be saved.
Covers and protects a tooth you still have.
Replaces a tooth that’s missing, using the teeth either side for support.
A crown is a cap that fits over the whole tooth. It’s usually recommended when a tooth is still healthy at the root but has been weakened.
A bridge is an option once a tooth has been lost or can’t be saved.
Sometimes a tooth that looks like it needs removing can be kept with root canal treatment followed by a crown. Keeping your own tooth is usually the first thing we look at, as long as it has a reasonable outlook. If it’s cracked below the gum or has very little support left, replacing it may be the more sensible long-term choice.
Fixed. No surgery. Neighbouring teeth are shaped for crowns. Usually finished in a few weeks.
Fixed. Neighbouring teeth untouched. Needs surgery and several months to finish.
Removable. No surgery. Clasps rest on nearby teeth. Usually finished in a few weeks.
Write these down and bring them along. A good plan should answer all of them.
A crown covers one tooth. A bridge usually involves at least three units: two supporting crowns and the false tooth. Materials, any treatment needed first and the number of teeth all affect the cost.
Your health fund rebate is processed at the counter.
Afterpay, Humm, National Dental Plan and DentiCare.
An itemised plan and full cost before we begin.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. This page is general information only and not a substitute for an examination. Individual results vary.
Crowns and bridges are both made to fit your own bite, so they take a couple of visits. We look after patients from Penrith and St Marys from our rooms in Jordan Springs.
Book an examination. We’ll tell you whether the tooth can be saved, and walk you through each option before you decide.