Crowns & Bridges in Hervey Bay

smiling person sitting in dental chair Crowns are synthetic caps, usually made of a material like porcelain, placed on the top of a tooth. Crowns are typically used to restore a tooth’s function and appearance following a restorative procedure, such as a root canal. When decay in a tooth has become so advanced that large portions of the tooth must be removed, crowns are often used to restore the tooth.

These caps are also used to attach bridges, cover implants, prevent a cracked tooth from becoming worse, or an existing filling is in danger of becoming loose or dislocated. Crowns also serve an aesthetic use and are applied when a discoloured or stained tooth needs to be restored to its natural appearance.

Crowns are sometimes confused with veneers, but they are quite different. Veneers are typically applied only to relatively small areas.

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What Does the Procedure Involve?

A tooth must usually be reduced in size to accommodate a crown. A cast is made of the existing tooth, and an impression is made. The impression is sent to a special lab, which manufactures a custom-designed crown.

In some cases, a temporary crown is applied until the permanent one is ready. A temporary crown is exactly what it sounds like, a crown that’ll only remain in your mouth for a short period. A temporary crown is kept while waiting for a permanent crown. Permanent crowns are cemented in place.

person flossing their teeth

Caring for Your Crowns

With proper care, a good quality crown could last up to eight years or longer. It is important to floss in the area of the crown to avoid excess plaque or collection of debris around the restoration. Certain behaviours, such as jaw clenching or bruxism (teeth grinding), significantly shorten the life of a crown. Moreover, eating brittle foods, ice or hard candy, can compromise the adhesion of the crown, or even damage the crown.

Bridges

Bridges are natural-looking dental appliances that can replace a section of missing teeth. Because they are custom-made, bridges are barely noticeable and can restore the natural contour of teeth, as well as the proper bite relationship between the upper and lower teeth. These appliances are sometimes referred to as fixed partial dentures, because they are semi-permanent and are bonded to existing teeth or implants. Some bridges are removable and can be cleaned by the wearer; others need to be removed by a dentist. Implant bridges are appliances that are attached to an area below the gum tissue, or the bone.

Porcelain, gold alloys or combinations of materials are usually used to make bridge appliances. Same-day dental bridges are an option for individuals who are pressed for time. However, some conditions apply: you may be eligible for same-day dental bridges if you are missing one or more teeth yet have healthy teeth surrounding the empty area.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do bridges and crowns last?

On average, with good oral hygiene practice at home and regular dental checkups, your bridge and crowns can last for up to eight years – or even longer. Some behaviours, such as teeth grinding and jaw clenching, can significantly reduce the lifespan of your bridge and crown.

Can you have your teeth whitened if you have a bridge?

Due to the nature of bridges, an over-the-counter teeth whitening solution would not respond well. This is because it is made for regular teeth, not porcelain. It is recommended that you whiten your teeth before a bridge is made, so your dentist can match the shade of the abutment tooth to your newly whitened teeth.

How much does a crown and bridge cost?

On average, the cost of a bridge in Australia can range from $1500 to $5000. This depends on the type of dental bridge you choose, how many teeth you will need to replace, and what teeth are involved. For a more accurate quote for your crowns and bridges, arrange a consultation with our dentist.

Do you accept payment plans for crowns and bridges?

Yes, we accept flexible payment plans for crowns and bridges. You may choose Afterpay or Payright.

Does my dental insurance cover the cost of crowns and bridges?

If you require dental treatment, such as crowns or bridges, private health insurance can provide varying levels of coverage to match your needs. Check with your policy to see the terms and conditions.

Contact Us Today

Dental crowns and bridges can help you make positive changes to the way you look. If you require dental crown or bridge treatments, please call us today at (07) 4125 5099 or book an appointment with our dentists.