Crowns & Bridges

Restore Function & Appearance

A porcelain crown replaces the enamel ‘cap’ of a tooth. A porcelain bridge replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth to ‘bridge’ the gap. Resembling your natural teeth, both are aesthetically pleasing structures that have a variety of applications.

Why Would I Need a Porcelain Crown or Bridge?

Difficulty biting, pain while chewing, uneven teeth, missing teeth, decay, a root canal, a fractured filling…there are many reasons why you may require one of these procedures.

Similar to a helmet on your head, a dental crown strengthens and protects the tooth from fracture.

As a bigger structure, a dental bridge is more functional: it will improve your bite, maintain the shape of your face and alleviate forces on other teeth (caused by the missing teeth).

Crowns & Bridges: What to Expect

Usually two visits are required to our Surrey clinic for dental crowns or bridges. First, to take impressions (molds) of your teeth, and to fit you with a temporary piece until your custom porcelain crown or bridge has been created. Second, to remove the temporary and to carefully position the new porcelain bridge or crown so that the bite and spacing are correct.

In preparation for a dental crown, the tooth will be numbed so that Dr. Bajwa can remove any decay and/or shape the surface.

Similarly, in preparation for a dental bridge, the neighbouring ‘anchor’ teeth are prepared as supports so that the bridge can be permanently cemented into place. If it is a large gap, dental implants may be needed to support the bridge.

If you are concerned about pain or the dental crown procedure at our Surrey clinic, please let us know. We can work out ways to improve your comfort levels and have different sedation options available.

Common Questions

How long will a crown or dental bridge last?

Answer

Porcelain bridges and crowns are very durable, and can last up to 15 years with proper brushing and flossing. Sometimes after regular wear and tear, bridges need to be re-cemented but not replaced.

Is a dental crown the same as a dental onlay?

Answer

No, onlays (and inlays) fall in between dental fillings and crowns. They restore larger areas of damage without having to use a crown. A dental inlay fills only the space at the centre of the tooth’s surface, while an onlay covers more area – but not as much as a crown would require. More durable and usually longer lasting than fillings, onlays and inlays preserve the tooth structure while still looking aesthetically pleasing.

What is the difference between a dental bridge and dentures?

Answer

Dentures are removable while a bridge is permanently affixed. Dental bridges tend to look more natural and usually cost less than other methods of tooth replacement, such as implants.

“Smile. It’s the boldest statement you can make without saying a word.”
–Unknown
DID YOU KNOW?

Roughly 60% of children from age 5-17 are affected by dental decay, a disease caused by bacterial infection and one of the most common childhood disorders.
–Canadian Dental Association
Our vision is to provide the highest standard of dental care possible, while being an integral member of our community with lifelong involvement and outreach.
–Sullivan Heights Dental
DID YOU KNOW?

Only 28% of people floss five times per week.
–Canadian Dental Association

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