Cosmetic Dentistry, Implants & Family Care.
Dental Crowns & Bridges in Caringbah
Restore damaged, broken or missing teeth with natural-looking crowns and bridges
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A damaged, weakened or missing tooth can affect much more than the appearance of your smile. It can make eating uncomfortable, affect your bite and place additional stress on the surrounding teeth.
At Jacaranda Dental in Caringbah, dental crowns and bridges can be used to restore the appearance, strength and function of your teeth.
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that fits over an existing tooth to help restore its shape, strength and appearance. A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by attaching an artificial tooth or teeth to neighbouring supporting teeth or, in some situations, dental implants.
The right solution depends on the condition of your teeth, gums, bite and overall oral health. Your Jacaranda Dental dentist will assess your individual situation and explain the treatment options available to you.
Book a consultation with our Caringbah dentists to discuss whether a dental crown or bridge is right for you.
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth.
Sometimes called a tooth crown, it covers the visible part of the tooth above the gum and is designed to restore its shape, function and appearance.
A crown may be recommended when a tooth has lost a significant amount of its natural structure and a filling may no longer provide sufficient support.
A dental crown may be suitable for a tooth that is:
- Broken or badly damaged
- Cracked or weakened
- Severely worn
- Extensively affected by decay
- Previously treated with a root canal
- Supporting an existing large filling
- Misshapen or aesthetically compromised
Crowns can also form part of other restorative treatments, including dental implant treatment.
A well-designed crown is made to look and function as naturally as possible while protecting the remaining tooth structure.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth.
A traditional dental bridge generally consists of an artificial tooth, known as a pontic, supported by crowns attached to the teeth on either side of the gap.
Unlike a removable partial denture, a fixed dental bridge is permanently attached in the mouth.
A dental bridge can help restore:
- Your ability to chew
- The appearance of your smile
- The shape of your dental arch
- Some aspects of your bite
- The space created by a missing tooth
A bridge may be an option when the teeth surrounding the gap are suitable to support the restoration.
In other situations, a dental implant may be considered instead of, or as an alternative to, a conventional bridge.
Dental crowns vs dental bridges
Although crowns and bridges are often discussed together, they solve different dental problems.
| Dental crown | Dental bridge |
| Restores an existing tooth | Replaces one or more missing teeth |
| Fits over a prepared tooth | Bridges the space left by a missing tooth |
| Can strengthen and protect a weakened tooth | Can restore chewing function and appearance |
| May be used after root canal treatment | Usually supported by neighbouring teeth or implants |
| Can also be attached to a dental implant | May incorporate several crowns as part of the bridge |
Your dentist can explain which treatment is appropriate after examining your teeth and taking any necessary X-rays or digital scans.
When might I need a dental crown?
There are several reasons your dentist may recommend a crown.
A broken or cracked tooth
A heavily damaged tooth may not have enough remaining structure to support a conventional filling. A crown can surround and protect the remaining tooth.
A heavily restored tooth
Large fillings can sometimes leave a tooth with relatively little natural tooth structure. A crown may provide additional protection where appropriate.
After root canal treatment
A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment may require additional protection, depending on the amount of remaining tooth structure and its location in the mouth.
Severe tooth decay
If decay has significantly weakened a tooth, your dentist may recommend a crown after removing the decay and restoring the remaining tooth.
Worn or damaged teeth
Teeth that have been significantly worn or damaged may sometimes be restored with crowns as part of a broader treatment plan.
Cosmetic concerns
In selected circumstances, a crown can also improve the shape, colour or appearance of a tooth. However, less invasive options may sometimes be appropriate, so your dentist will discuss the alternatives with you.
When might I need a dental bridge?
A dental bridge may be considered when you have one or more missing teeth and the surrounding teeth or dental implants are suitable to support the restoration.
Replacing a missing tooth can help restore your ability to chew and may improve the appearance of your smile.
A bridge can also help maintain the position of the surrounding teeth by filling the space created by a missing tooth.
However, a bridge is not automatically the best solution for every missing tooth. Depending on your circumstances, alternatives may include:
- Dental implants
- Partial dentures
- Other restorative options
Your dentist will assess the health and position of the remaining teeth, your gums and your bite before recommending an appropriate treatment.
What are dental crowns made from?
Dental crowns can be made from a range of materials. The most suitable material depends on factors such as the position of the tooth, the forces placed on it, appearance and the amount of tooth structure remaining.
Common crown materials include:
| Crown material | Common considerations |
| Porcelain/ceramic | Can provide a highly natural appearance and may be suitable for selected teeth |
| Zirconia | Strong, tooth-coloured ceramic material that can be suitable for a range of applications |
| Porcelain fused to metal | Combines a metal substructure with a tooth-coloured outer surface |
| Gold alloy | Strong and durable, with particular applications where appearance is less important |
There isn’t one crown material that is ideal for every patient or every tooth.
Your dentist will discuss the advantages and limitations of the available materials before treatment.
What does getting a dental crown involve?
Dental crown treatment usually involves several stages.
1. Assessment
Your dentist will examine the tooth and surrounding tissues to determine whether a crown is appropriate.
Depending on the situation, X-rays, photographs or digital scans may be required.
The health of the tooth, gums and supporting structures will be considered before treatment begins.
2. Preparing the tooth
If a crown is appropriate, the tooth is carefully prepared to create the space required for the restoration.
Local anaesthetic can be used to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
3. Digital scan or impression
A digital scan or conventional impression can be used to record the shape and position of the prepared tooth.
This information is used to create a custom-made crown designed to fit your tooth and bite.
4. Temporary crown
Depending on the type of treatment, a temporary crown may be placed while your permanent crown is being made.
5. Fitting the permanent crown
At the subsequent appointment, your dentist will check the crown’s fit, appearance and bite.
Once everything is satisfactory, the crown is permanently bonded or cemented into position.
What does getting a dental bridge involve?
The exact process depends on the type of bridge being considered.
For a conventional bridge, the supporting teeth are assessed and prepared for the restoration.
A digital scan or impression is then taken so that the bridge can be custom made.
A temporary restoration may be provided while the permanent bridge is being manufactured.
At the fitting appointment, your dentist will check the fit, appearance and bite before permanently securing the bridge.
In suitable cases, a bridge may instead be supported by dental implants rather than natural teeth.
What does getting a dental crown involve?
Dental crown treatment usually involves several stages.
1. Assessment
Your dentist will examine the tooth and surrounding tissues to determine whether a crown is appropriate.
Depending on the situation, X-rays, photographs or digital scans may be required.
The health of the tooth, gums and supporting structures will be considered before treatment begins.
2. Preparing the tooth
If a crown is appropriate, the tooth is carefully prepared to create the space required for the restoration.
Local anaesthetic can be used to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
3. Digital scan or impression
A digital scan or conventional impression can be used to record the shape and position of the prepared tooth.
This information is used to create a custom-made crown designed to fit your tooth and bite.
4. Temporary crown
Depending on the type of treatment, a temporary crown may be placed while your permanent crown is being made.
5. Fitting the permanent crown
At the subsequent appointment, your dentist will check the crown’s fit, appearance and bite.
Once everything is satisfactory, the crown is permanently bonded or cemented into position.
What does getting a dental bridge involve?
The exact process depends on the type of bridge being considered.
For a conventional bridge, the supporting teeth are assessed and prepared for the restoration.
A digital scan or impression is then taken so that the bridge can be custom made.
A temporary restoration may be provided while the permanent bridge is being manufactured.
At the fitting appointment, your dentist will check the fit, appearance and bite before permanently securing the bridge.
In suitable cases, a bridge may instead be supported by dental implants rather than natural teeth.
Dental crowns and bridges at Jacaranda Dental
At Jacaranda Dental, we take a comprehensive approach to restorative dentistry.
Before recommending a crown or bridge, we consider the condition of your teeth, gums and bite, as well as your long-term oral health.
Our aim is not simply to replace damaged or missing tooth structure. We want your restoration to integrate naturally with your existing teeth and function comfortably as part of your smile.
Depending on your circumstances, we may discuss other options such as:
- Tooth-coloured fillings
- Inlays or onlays
- Veneers
- Dental implants
- Dental bridges
- Partial dentures
- Other restorative treatments
The best treatment is the one that is appropriate for the individual tooth and your overall dental needs.
How long do dental crowns and bridges last?
Dental crowns and bridges can last for many years, but there is no guaranteed lifespan.
Their longevity can depend on:
- The condition of the underlying teeth
- The health of your gums
- Your bite
- Oral hygiene
- Tooth grinding or clenching
- The materials used
- The quality and fit of the restoration
- Regular dental maintenance
Importantly, although the crown or bridge itself cannot develop tooth decay, the natural tooth underneath or around it can still be affected by decay.
Good brushing, a healthy diet, cleaning between your teeth and regular dental examinations are therefore important for maintaining your restoration.
How do I look after a dental crown or bridge?
A crowned tooth should be cleaned in much the same way as your natural teeth.
For a bridge, particular attention needs to be paid to cleaning underneath and around the artificial tooth.
Depending on the design of your bridge, your dentist may recommend:
- Dental floss
- Floss threaders
- Super floss
- Interdental brushes (Piksters)
- Other specialised cleaning aids
Regular professional dental examinations are also important.
If you notice that a crown or bridge feels loose, fractured or uncomfortable, contact your dentist rather than continuing to use it as normal.
Dental crown or bridge: what are the alternatives?
A crown or bridge isn’t necessarily the only way to restore a damaged or missing tooth.
The appropriate alternatives depend on the individual circumstances.
| Treatment | Generally used for | Fixed or removable? |
| Dental crown | Damaged or weakened existing tooth | Fixed |
| Dental bridge | One or more missing teeth | Fixed |
| Dental implant + crown | Replacement of a missing tooth | Fixed |
| Partial denture | Replacement of multiple missing teeth | Removable |
| Filling / tooth restoration | Smaller areas of tooth damage | Fixed |
There can be important differences between these options in terms of tooth preparation, treatment time, cost, maintenance and suitability.
Your dentist can explain these differences during your consultation.
Dental crown vs dental implant
These treatments are sometimes confused because both can be used to restore the appearance and function of a tooth.
A dental crown is placed over an existing tooth, or can be attached to a dental implant.
A dental implant replaces the root of a missing tooth. Once the implant has integrated with the jawbone, a crown can be attached to it.
If a tooth is still healthy enough to restore, preserving the natural tooth may be an option.
If a tooth is missing or cannot be predictably restored, an implant-supported crown may be considered.
The appropriate treatment depends on your individual circumstances.
How much do dental crowns and bridges cost?
The cost of a dental crown or bridge varies because every treatment is different.
Factors that can affect the cost include:
- The number of teeth being treated
- The type of crown or bridge
- The materials selected
- The complexity of the treatment
- Whether the tooth requires additional treatment
- Whether temporary restorations are required
- Whether dental implants are involved
Private dental fees vary between practices, and health fund rebates also differ depending on your policy and level of cover.
At Jacaranda Dental, we will explain the recommended treatment and associated fees before you proceed.
If you have private health insurance, we can also help you understand what information you may need to provide to your health fund when checking your cover.
Ask us about the cost of your dental crown or bridge at your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions on Dental Crowns & Bridges
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that fits over an existing tooth. It can restore the shape, strength and appearance of a tooth that has been significantly damaged or weakened.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It is usually supported by neighbouring teeth or, in some cases, dental implants.
Is getting a dental crown painful?
The tooth is generally treated using local anaesthetic during preparation, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some sensitivity or discomfort can occur afterwards and usually settles as the tooth and surrounding tissues recover.
How long does a dental crown take?
The treatment time depends on the type of crown and the individual tooth. Most crowns are completed in 2 visits over a 2 week period with a temporary crown used between appointments.
How long does a dental crown last?
Dental crowns can last for many years, but their lifespan varies between individuals. Oral hygiene, the health of the underlying tooth, bite forces, grinding and the quality and fit of the crown can all influence longevity.
Can a crown be placed over a root canal tooth?
Yes. Crowns are commonly used to restore and protect teeth that have undergone root canal treatment, although whether a crown is appropriate depends on the amount and condition of the remaining tooth structure.
Can a dental crown fall off?
A crown can occasionally become loose or come off. It can also fracture or chip. If this happens, contact your dentist so the tooth and crown can be assessed.
Does a crown protect a tooth from decay?
A crown covers and protects the restored part of a tooth, but the natural tooth underneath and around the crown can still develop decay. Good oral hygiene and regular dental examinations remain important.
How long does a dental bridge last?
A dental bridge can last for many years when it is properly maintained, but there is no guaranteed lifespan. The health of the supporting teeth and gums, oral hygiene, bite forces and the condition of the bridge can all affect its longevity.
Can you replace one missing tooth with a dental bridge?
Yes. A dental bridge can be used to replace a single missing tooth by using neighbouring teeth as supports. Depending on the circumstances, an implant-supported crown may also be an alternative.
Is a dental bridge better than an implant?
Dental bridges and dental implants are different treatments, and suitability depends on the individual patient. A bridge may use neighbouring teeth for support, whereas an implant replaces the root of a missing tooth and can support a crown.
Your dentist can discuss the advantages, limitations and long-term considerations of each option.
Can a dental bridge look natural?
Yes. Modern dental bridges can be made using tooth-coloured materials designed to blend with the surrounding teeth. The final appearance depends on the material, position of the tooth, shade and design of the restoration.
Can I eat normally with a dental crown?
Once the crown has been permanently fitted and any initial sensitivity has settled, you should generally be able to use the tooth normally. Your dentist will provide specific instructions based on your treatment.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
A properly fitted bridge is designed to restore chewing function. You will need to maintain good cleaning around and underneath the bridge to protect the supporting teeth and gums.
How do I clean under a dental bridge?
Because the artificial tooth is connected to the supporting crowns, ordinary floss cannot always pass between the teeth in the same way. Your dentist or oral health therapist can show you how to use floss threaders, specialised floss or interdental brushes to clean underneath the bridge.
Which is better: a crown, bridge or denture?
There isn’t one option that is best for everyone. A crown generally restores an existing tooth, a bridge replaces one or more missing teeth using fixed support, and a partial denture is removable. Dental implants may provide another fixed option for suitable patients.
The appropriate treatment depends on your oral health, the number and condition of missing or damaged teeth, your bite and your personal circumstances.
How much does a dental crown cost?
The cost depends on the type of crown, the tooth being treated and whether additional treatment is required. Your dentist will provide information about the recommended treatment and fees before you proceed.
How much does a dental bridge cost?
The cost of a dental bridge depends on the number of teeth involved, the type of bridge, the materials used and the complexity of treatment. An implant-supported bridge has different costs from a conventional tooth-supported bridge.
Restore your smile with personalised crown and bridge treatment in Caringbah
If you have a broken, weakened, heavily restored or missing tooth, a dental crown or bridge may be able to restore both function and appearance.
At Jacaranda Dental in Caringbah, our dentists will assess your individual situation and explain the available options, including crowns, bridges, dental implants and other restorative treatments.
We’ve cared for local families in Caringbah and across the Sutherland Shire since 1999, with the same principal dentists providing continuity of care.
Book an appointment with Jacaranda Dental to discuss your dental crown or bridge options.
Jacaranda Dental – Caringbah
278 Kingsway, Caringbah NSW 2229