A dental crown is a tooth-shaped ‘cap’ that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. The crown, when cemented into place, fully encases the visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line.

Dental bridges bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. The missing tooth, known as the ‘pontic’, is supported by crowns on one or more teeth adjacent to the gap. Implants can also support bridges and are often used in the replacement of multiple missing teeth – please see our section on implants for more information. 

In order to make a crown or bridge that fits perfectly, your dentist first prepares the tooth itself. Preparation involves removal of the enamel layer so that the crown can replace it without making the restoration bulky or uncomfortable. We also remove any existing decay or filling material. Basically, we get down to healthy tooth structure and rebuild from there.