Crowns/bridges

Porcelain crowns and bridges

If the decayed/damaged tooth can no longer be treated with an aesthetic filling or ceramic inlay, a crown may be necessary. It may happen that the tooth needs root canal treatment beforehand.

We talk about a bridge when we want to replace missing teeth. The so-called bridge element is the tooth that is placed between the two existing teeth.

The abutment teeth are prepared and polished to the appropriate shape using a drill. We then make an impression, which we send to a dental laboratory. The bridge/crown being made will be tested 1-3 times, in various phases of the preparation, at a time agreed upon with you in advance. Finally, the finished bridge is attached with a strong dental adhesive.

Risks associated with treatment include:

• The sensitivity of the teeth: slight or increased sensitivity of the teeth may develop as a result of preparation. If the discomfort persists for a longer period of time, the clinic must be contacted immediately for further examinations. In case of persistent sensitivity or pain, your dentist may recommend additional treatments (e.g. root canal treatment).
• During preparation, in some cases the pulp chamber may open, in which case root canal treatment is unavoidable in order to preserve the tooth.
• In case of extreme masticatory force or improper "use", the crowns/bridges may fall out, their ceramic covering may be partially or completely damaged or snap off.

The average life expectancy of crowns / bridges is 10-12 years. After that, during regular check-ups, your dentist may recommend replacing the crowns/bridges.

Possible consequences of failure to treat: 

1. In the case of a missing tooth, the teeth surrounding the missing tooth may fall in or elongate if a suitable replacement is not prepared.
2. The tooth can break even under the influence of a minor force, which may necessitate root canal treatment. In the worst case, it may become necessary to remove the tooth.