If a tooth is cracked, heavily filled, root-canal treated, or missing altogether, a dental crown or bridge can restore its strength, shape and appearance.
A dental crown (sometimes called a "cap") is a custom-made restoration that covers the entire visible part of a tooth above the gum line. It's designed to match the shape, size and colour of your natural teeth as closely as possible.
A crown may be recommended when:
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a false tooth (or teeth) to the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap. Left unaddressed, a gap from a missing tooth can allow neighbouring teeth to shift over time, which can affect your bite.
Bridges are usually made from ceramic or a ceramic-metal combination and are cemented in place, giving a fixed (non-removable) replacement for the missing tooth.
The right material depends on the tooth's location, your bite, and your aesthetic goals. Your dentist will discuss the most suitable option for you at your consultation.
Provide a natural, tooth-like appearance and are often preferred for front teeth or other visible areas due to their translucency and colour-matching.
A strong, durable ceramic material that combines good aesthetics with high fracture resistance, often used for back teeth that take more chewing force.
Combine a metal substructure for strength with a porcelain outer layer for a more natural look than a full metal crown.
Highly durable and long-wearing; sometimes recommended for molars where appearance is less of a priority than strength.
There's more than one way to replace a missing tooth, and the best option depends on your oral health, the position of the tooth, and your budget. As a general guide:
Your dentist can talk through the pros, cons and suitability of each during your appointment.
Your dentist examines the tooth, and may take an x-ray, to confirm a crown or bridge is appropriate.
the tooth is gently reshaped to make room for the restoration.
used to custom-make your crown or bridge.
fitted while your permanent crown or bridge is made
Your dentist checks the fit, bite and appearance before permanently cementing it in place.
Treatment can typically be completed over more than one visit, as your crown or bridge is custom-made to fit your tooth. Your dentist will confirm expected timeframes and the number of visits at your consultation.
With good daily care, crowns and bridges are designed to last for many years. To help protect your restoration:
The cost of a crown or bridge depends on the material used, the number of teeth involved, and your individual treatment plan. We accept all major Australian health funds and offer payment plans through Afterpay, Zip and Humm. Your dentist will provide a personalised quote after your consultation, and our team can help you understand your health fund rebate.
See our payment options →
For all enquiries and to make an appointment, please contact Care 4 Teeth today. We look forward to hearing from you.
With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, crowns and bridges can last many years. Their lifespan varies from person to person depending on oral hygiene, bite forces and general wear.
Your dentist will use local anaesthetic to numb the area during tooth preparation, so most patients feel little to no discomfort during the procedure. Mild sensitivity for a few days afterwards is common.
This depends on your specific case. Ask your dentist about the number of appointments and expected timeframe for your treatment plan.
Many Australian health funds provide a rebate for crowns and bridges, though the amount depends on your policy and level of cover. Our team can help you check your rebate.
A crown covers and protects a single existing tooth. A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a false tooth to the surrounding natural teeth or implants.
