What Crowns and Bridges Are
A dental crown is a cap that fits over a decayed, cracked or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth's shape, strength and appearance. A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a replacement tooth to the crowns on the neighbouring teeth. A bridge needs at least three crowns, two of which, called abutment teeth, hold the replacement tooth in the middle. Crowns are also used to complete dental implants and to cover a tooth after root canal treatment.
When You May Need a Crown or Bridge
- A cavity has damaged a tooth so much that a filling is no longer enough.
- A tooth is cracked, worn or weakened.
- A tooth has had root canal treatment and needs protection.
- You are missing a tooth and want a fixed replacement.
- You want to improve the look of a misshapen or discoloured tooth.
Materials
Modern crowns are typically made from porcelain, which can look very natural and can improve the appearance of the original tooth. Metals such as gold alloys can also be used, although they do not have the natural look of porcelain. Your dentist will talk through the materials and recommend what suits the tooth and your goals.
How Treatment Works
- Exam and planning: your dentist examines the tooth, takes X-rays and explains your options.
- Preparing the tooth: after numbing, the tooth is shaped to make room for the crown. For a bridge, the neighbouring teeth that will support it are prepared in the same way.
- Impressions: a precise record of your teeth is taken so your crown or bridge is made to fit.
- Temporary crown: a temporary is placed to protect the tooth while your final restoration is made.
- Final fitting: the final crown or bridge is checked for fit, bite and appearance, then secured in place.
After a root canal, a same-day follow-up crown is often available. Ask your dentist whether this applies to you.
Crowns and Bridges Compared With Implants
Crowns and bridges are a more affordable alternative to dental implants for replacing missing teeth. An implant replaces the tooth root, while a bridge relies on the neighbouring teeth for support, which means those teeth need to be trimmed. Your dentist can explain the pros and cons of each so you can choose what suits you.
Before Your Visit
- Tell us about any pain, sensitivity or biting problems with the tooth.
- Bring your insurance information and a list of your medications.
- Let us know if you would like sedation options, such as laughing gas.
- Think about your questions on materials, cost and how long the treatment will take.
After Your Treatment
- Your mouth may be numb for a few hours, so avoid chewing until the numbness wears off.
- Some sensitivity to hot and cold is normal for a few days.
- If you have a temporary crown, avoid sticky or very hard foods and floss carefully.
- Brush twice a day and floss daily, taking extra care around the edges of the crown or under the bridge.
- Call the clinic if your bite feels uneven, the crown comes loose, or you have swelling, fever, lasting pain or bleeding.
Cost, Insurance and Direct Billing
Our fees run 5% below the Alberta Dental Association Fee Guide, and you will receive a written cost estimate before treatment starts. We bill your insurance directly, and financing options and monthly payment plans are available.
Why Choose Allard Station Dental
- Natural-looking materials and clear explanations.
- Implant, bridge and denture options all in one clinic.
- Open seven days a week, with evening and weekend appointments.
- Direct billing and financing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a crown and a bridge?
A crown covers a single damaged tooth. A bridge replaces missing teeth by anchoring a replacement tooth to crowns on the neighbouring teeth.
How many visits does a crown take?
Many crowns take two visits, one to prepare the tooth and one to place the final crown. After a root canal, a same-day crown is often available. Your dentist will tell you what applies to your case.
Does getting a crown hurt?
The area is numbed for the procedure, so you should not feel pain during treatment. Some sensitivity afterward is normal and usually settles in a few days.
How long do crowns and bridges last?
With good care, they can last for many years. How long yours lasts depends on the materials, your oral hygiene and your bite, and your dentist can give you more guidance.
Will a crown look natural?
Porcelain crowns are designed to look natural and can be matched to your teeth. Your dentist will discuss the colour and shape with you.
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
Often yes. A crown can protect a tooth after root canal treatment. Your dentist will advise whether it is needed for your tooth.