Restorative dentistry >> Broken Tooth / Crowns / Bridges / Dentures
Broken Tooth
There are a number of ways to solve the problem of a chipped or broken tooth. Our dentists are happy to discuss all the options with you on examination of the tooth.
A chipped tooth for example could be repaired with bonding material. The tooth could be prepared and a crown made. Or a veneer could be made which is fixed to the front of the tooth.
Crowns
A Crown is a restoration that covers a tooth to restore it to its normal shape and size. Adding strength and also improving the appearance of a tooth. Sometimes a crown is referred to as a ‘cap’.
The dentist prepares the tooth by removing most of the outer surface and leaving an inner core. A temporary tooth is fitted while your permanent crown is being constructed by the laboratory.
Once made, the temporary crown is removed and your new crown will be fixed in place.
When a tooth is missing there are usually a number of solutions available and your treatment options should be discussed with your dentist.
Bridges
A bridge fills the gap of missing teeth and can restore your smile and improve your ability to chew and speak properly. A bridge can also prevent your remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
Suitability, risks and benefits should be discussed with your dentist.
A fixed bridge is made by putting crowns on the teeth either side of the space and joining the crowns together by placing a false tooth in the space.
An adhesive bridge has wings that are bonded to the back of supporting teeth.
Dentures
By working closely with our patients we can create a denture that fills the spaces created by missing teeth enabling you to enjoy a healthy diet and a confident smile.
A full denture is one that replaces all of the natural teeth in either the upper or lower jaws.
A partial denture fills in the spaces where you have missing teeth and is attached to your natural teeth with metal clasps or devices called precision attachments.
The base of a denture is made of either acrylic (plastic) or metal. The teeth are normally made of acrylic and colour matched closely with your natural teeth.