Before
After
Prosthetics replaces what has been lost, a single tooth or a whole row.
When a crown is needed
A crown is called for when a tooth is too badly damaged for a filling to hold it, or when it has become brittle after root canal treatment. It surrounds the tooth and protects it from fracturing. The metal-ceramic crown is a proven solution that lasts for years, while all-ceramic looks more natural because it transmits light in a similar way to a real tooth, which is why it is mainly used for front teeth. The process normally takes several appointments, preparation and impression and then fitting, with a few days in between while the work is made in the laboratory and you wear a temporary crown.
Bridges for a gap
A bridge closes a gap by resting on the neighbouring teeth. It is a fixed solution for one or several missing teeth in a row, nothing is taken out and nothing has to be removed for cleaning. The condition is that the neighbouring teeth are stable enough to carry the bridge, and whether that is the case is something we assess after an examination and an X-ray.
Partial and full dentures
A partial denture is made when some of your own teeth remain, and a full denture when none do. A cast metal framework denture is smaller and more stable than a conventional acrylic one because it is supported by the remaining teeth. Getting used to a new denture takes the first few weeks, and sore spots and an unfamiliar feeling when speaking are normal during that period. We adjust the denture at follow-up appointments, which is part of the process and not a sign that something went wrong.
Why a gap matters
When a tooth is missing, the neighbouring teeth slowly tilt into the space and the opposing tooth drifts down. The bite changes, the load is distributed unevenly, and after a few years the restoration is usually more involved than it would have been at the start. That is why we talk about how a gap can be closed at the time a tooth is removed, even if you are not ready to decide straight away.
Looking after prosthetic work
Crowns and bridges are brushed like your own teeth, with particular attention at the gum line and between the teeth. There are special aids for cleaning underneath a bridge, and we show you how to use them when it is fitted. Removable dentures are cleaned daily and checked regularly.
Frequently asked questions
How many appointments does a crown take?
Usually several: preparation and impression, then fitting, with laboratory work in between. Exactly how many and how many days apart depends on the case, and we tell you after the examination.
How long does a crown last?
With good care and regular check-ups, many years. Its lifespan depends on the condition of the tooth underneath, the load when chewing and your oral hygiene. It would not be honest to name a fixed number.
Metal-ceramic or all-ceramic, which should I choose?
All-ceramic looks more natural in the visible area. Metal-ceramic is a proven solution and is often chosen for back teeth. We work through the decision based on the position of the tooth and what you expect it to look like.
How long does it take to get used to a denture?
Usually a few weeks. Sore spots and slightly changed speech are normal at first. Come back for the follow-up so we can adjust it, because grinding it down yourself almost always makes matters worse.
Does a root-treated tooth have to be crowned?
Often yes, because such teeth become more brittle over time and can fracture while chewing. Whether it is necessary in your case is something we assess after treatment, based on how much tooth structure remains.
Can I eat normally with a bridge?
A fixed bridge is loaded like your own teeth. The feeling is unfamiliar for the first few days and usually settles quickly. Very hard things such as ice, nut shells and bones are best avoided in general.
What will it cost in your case?
It depends on the condition of your teeth and what needs to be done. Send us a message — a photo helps — and we'll tell you what we suggest and how long it takes.