When teeth are damaged, weakened, or missing, it can affect your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Dental crowns and bridges are proven restorative treatments that strengthen teeth and replace missing ones, giving you back both function and aesthetics.
At Centrepoint Dental Care, we provide tailored restorative solutions, including crowns and bridges, to help patients enjoy healthy, natural-looking smiles.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom made cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, size, and function while offering long-term protection. Crowns are often recommended after:
- A root canal treatment
- Severe tooth decay or damage
- A large filling that has weakened the tooth
- A fractured or broken tooth
Crowns are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, offering both durability and a natural appearance.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth by “bridging” the gap with artificial teeth anchored by crowns on neighbouring teeth. Bridges help:
- Prevent surrounding teeth from shifting out of place
- Restore natural chewing and speaking ability
- Maintain jaw alignment and facial shape
Bridges are a fixed solution, making them an excellent choice for patients seeking a reliable alternative to dentures.
Types and Materials
There are several types of bridges and materials commonly used for crowns and bridges:
- Traditional bridges – secured with crowns on both sides of the missing tooth.
- Cantilever bridges – anchored on only one side, useful when one supporting tooth is available.
- Resin-bonded (Maryland) bridges – a conservative option using bonded wings on the back of adjacent teeth.
- Implant-supported bridges – fixed to implants rather than natural teeth for extra stability.
Materials include porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, and metal alloys. The choice depends on strength requirements, position in the mouth, aesthetic needs, and budget.
Crowns vs Bridges: How to Decide
| Factor | Crowns | Bridges |
| Purpose | Protects or strengthens a single tooth | Replaces one or more missing teeth |
| Support needed | Tooth must be healthy enough for a cap | Neighbouring teeth or implants act as anchors |
| Aesthetic focus | Restores a damaged tooth | Fills a visible gap with natural-looking teeth |
| Treatment scope | One tooth | Multiple teeth |
Your dentist will recommend the most suitable option depending on the condition of your teeth, gum health, and long-term goals.
Benefits of Crowns and Bridges
Both crowns and bridges offer important benefits:
- Improved function – chewing and speaking feel more natural
- Protection and strength – crowns reinforce weak or damaged teeth
- Natural appearance – restorations are colour-matched to your smile
- Prevention of complications – bridges stop teeth from shifting into empty spaces
The Procedure: What to Expect
The process usually involves several steps:
- Consultation and examination – your dentist evaluates your teeth and discusses treatment options.
- Preparation – supporting teeth are prepared, and impressions are taken.
- Custom fabrication – your crown or bridge is created in a dental laboratory for a precise fit.
- Placement – the restoration is securely fitted to restore function and appearance.
Caring for Your Crown or Bridge
With the right care, crowns and bridges can last many years. To extend their lifespan:
- Brush and floss daily, paying attention to edges and under bridges
- Use floss threaders or interdental brushes for hard-to-reach areas
- Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleans
- Avoid chewing on hard foods or using teeth to open packaging
Restoring Smiles at Centrepoint Dental Care
At Centrepoint Dental Care, we understand that every smile is unique. Our team provides comprehensive restorative dentistry in Tamworth to restore comfort and function.
If you are considering options for damaged or missing teeth, learn more about crowns and bridges in Tamworth. We also offer alternatives such as dental implants, ensuring every patient receives the most suitable solution.
Explore our homepage to discover our full range of dental services.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for general educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or care. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or medical condition.
