DENTAL CROWNS
What are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a restorative solution to the following: a decayed, broken or cracked tooth, a tooth which is predominantly filling, to support a dental bridge or to cover crooked or discoloured teeth. At Umi Clinic our dental crowns can be made from a range of different materials, with ceramic, porcelain, or porcelain bonded to metal being the most commonly used.
At your first consultation we discuss how a crown could help your condition and will recommend the best material to use. We ensure the colour of the custom-made crown matches your adjacent teeth, so the final result will look natural. Two visits to our clinic are normally required for a dental crown. At the first visit, we prepare your tooth, take impressions and fit a temporary crown. At the second visit, the temporary crown will be replaced with the permanent one, fixed in place using a long-lasting dental adhesive.
DENTAL CROWNS FAQS
Dental crowns are custom-made prosthetic devices placed over damaged or decayed teeth to restore their shape, size, strength and appearance. They are often made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials.
The lifespan of a dental crown can vary depending on factors such as oral hygiene, biting forces, and the material used. On average, dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more with proper care and maintenance.
The process of getting a dental crown typically involves numbing the tooth and surrounding area with a local anaesthetic, so patients should not feel pain during the procedure. However, some discomfort or sensitivity may be experienced afterward, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
The cost of dental crowns can vary depending on factors such as the material used and the complexity of the procedure. For further information on cost see our dental fees page.
Unlike natural teeth, dental crowns cannot be whitened using traditional teeth whitening methods. However, maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks can help preserve the appearance of dental crowns. In some cases, if the crown becomes discoloured over time, it may need to be replaced to restore its appearance.
While dental crowns are designed to be durable and long-lasting, they may need to be replaced eventually due to wear and tear, decay, or changes in the surrounding teeth. However, with proper care and maintenance, dental crowns can provide many years of functionality and aesthetic improvement.
DENTAL BRIDGES
What are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges could be the ideal solution for you if you have missing teeth. Missing teeth and gaps can affect your ability to smile, eat and socialise with confidence. Bridges are just one solution to this problem and at Umi Clinic in Petersfield our experienced dentists can advise you on the best treatment.
Bridges work by attaching an artificial tooth in the gap between your natural teeth and creating a crown for the teeth on either side to hold the false one in place. A bridge is only an option if the supporting teeth on either side of the missing one have sufficient strength to support the bridge. An alternative is to have dental implant treatment and your dentist at Umi Clinic will discuss all options with you depending on your case.
DENTAL BRIDGES FAQS
Dental bridges are prosthetic devices used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between adjacent teeth. They consist of artificial teeth (called pontics) held in place by dental crowns or implants on either side of the gap.
The lifespan of a dental bridge can vary depending on factors such as oral hygiene, biting forces, and the material used. On average, dental bridges can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more with proper care and maintenance.
The process of getting a dental bridge typically involves numbing the teeth and surrounding area with a local anaesthetic, so patients should not feel pain during the procedure. However, some discomfort or sensitivity may be experienced afterward, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
The cost of dental bridges can vary depending on factors such as the number of missing teeth, the materials used and the complexity of the procedure. Check our dental fees page for further information.
Unlike removable dentures, traditional dental bridges are fixed in place and cannot be removed by the patient. However, there are removable options available, such as implant-supported overdentures, which can be taken out for cleaning and maintenance.
Proper oral hygiene is essential for maintaining the longevity of a dental bridge. This includes brushing at least twice a day, flossing around the bridge and under the pontic, and using antimicrobial mouthwash. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also important to ensure the health of the surrounding teeth and gums.
