Crowns are used to protect a weakened or heavily filled tooth, or for cosmetic reasons. They are constructed from tooth coloured porcelain, with a metal sub-structure for added strength for posterior teeth.
We also offer Emax porcelain crowns for a natural finish if a metal base is not desired by the patient. Most NHS posterior crowns are made of non-precious metal as they are stronger.
Dental bridges literally bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth.
The neighbouring teeth –either natural teeth or implants –are used to support a false tooth or teeth that can then stay in position permanently.
A denture is a removable appliance for missing teeth and surrounding tissues.
Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, whilst partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Dentures can be made from acrylic, Valplast (a flexible plastic) or chrome cobalt (a metal material with acrylic added), giving the gums a natural appearance.
Dentures are made over a series of appointments with one to two weeks between each stage.
Endodontic or root canal treatment is performed when saving a tooth that is badly decayed or has become infected and the only other option is to have it removed. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.
Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected, abscesses may form and it can become very painful. This treatment is usually done over two or more long-length appointments. Root-treated teeth become brittle after treatment and usually require crowning to prevent cracks or fractures.
