DENTAL CROWNS AND BRIDGES
What are Dental Crowns
A crown is an indirect restoration used to restore a badly broken down tooth, and to prevent further decay and damage.
Why do I need a dental crown?
A dental crown restores the appearance and function of the tooth. They are commonly done:
  • when cavity is too large and a direct filling is not strong enough to repair the tooth
  • when the limited remaining tooth structure are unable to withstand biting forces
  • on a root canal treated tooth which is weak to prevent it from breaking
  • to restore a dental implant
  • to improve the appearance of a discoloured or misshapen tooth
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge utilises existing teeth on either side of the space as anchors for the bridge, incorporating a prosthetic tooth/teeth to fill the gap. Unlike dentures, bridges are permanently fixed and are not removable.
Why do I need a dental bridge?
A bridge is important because it replaces missing teeth which may cause an altered bite, and even jaw joint problems.
What are dental crowns and dental bridges made of?
Permanent crowns and bridges are usually made of ceramic material that is matched to the shade of your teeth. They can also be made from metal alloys or gold. Sometimes, they are made from a combination of both ceramic and metal (known as porcelain-fused-to-metal). Each material has its pros and cons, and your friendly dentist would be happy to explain and discuss which material best suits your particular situation.
How do I get started on dental crowns and bridges?
Most crowns and bridges require at least 2 visits to custom-make them to fit your mouth and the shade of your teeth. During the first visit, the dentist will file down and smooth the tooth/teeth involved, and take an impression for the prostheses to be made in a dental laboratory. In between visits, a temporary crown or bridge is fixed to the supporting tooth/teeth. At the final visit, the dentist will fix the crown or bridge permanently inside your mouth.
DENTURES
What are Dentures
Dentures are an option to replace teeth that are missing. Unlike dental bridges or dental implants, dentures are removable and not permanently fixed in the oral cavity.
Why do I need a denture?
A denture is a removable piece of appliance to replace missing teeth. There are 2 types of dentures – complete (full) and partial dentures. Complete dentures, as the name suggests, are used when all the teeth are completely missing. Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain in the mouth.
What are dentures made of?
Dentures are made from plastic teeth attached to a gum-coloured plastic base, which is sometimes be connected to a metal framework.
How are dentures made?
The denture-making process involves 4 or more visits to your dentist. During the various visits, impressions of your jaw and teeth are taken. Your jaw relationship will be measured, and the shade of your teeth chosen. You will get to decide during the “try-in” visit if the appearance and fit are suitable, before the denture is cast for final fitting.
How do I take care of my dentures?
Dentures need to be removed for cleaning after meals, and are not worn when sleeping to promote good oral health.
DENTAL IMPLANTS
What are Dental Implants
Similar to dental bridges and dentures, dental implants are indicated when there is a need to replace a missing tooth or teeth.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a titanium post that replaces the root portion of a missing tooth. A crown is then placed over the post, to restore the space and function left by the missing tooth.
Why should I choose dental implants over other alternatives?
Dental implants are continually used as alternatives to dentures. They are usually more expensive, but the benefits outweigh the cost as they closely resemble your natural teeth, and help eliminate some of the problems associated with denture wearing. As implants are placed in your jaw bone, they help to prevent bone loss that happens with missing teeth. They are chosen over bridges as they do not require the filing/shaving down of adjacent teeth. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for implants, your friendly dentist would assess and advise accordingly.
How are dental implants done?
Dental implant surgery involves surgically placing the titanium implant into your jawbone under local anesthetic. Patients often report a comfortable post-operative experience.

After the implant is firmly integrated into the jawbone, usually 8-12 weeks later, an artificial tooth in the form of a crown is attached to it permanently. The implant and crown unit now behaves like a natural tooth.
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