Crowns
A crown is a cap that covers the whole visible part of a tooth, to strengthen it after heavy filling, a crack or root canal treatment. If a tooth is very weak, a post may be needed inside it first. Crowns can be metal, metal-ceramic or all-ceramic; all-ceramic crowns contain no metal and look the most like natural teeth.
Bridges
A bridge fills a gap by fixing a false tooth to the teeth on either side. An adhesive ("sticky-back") bridge is bonded to the back of a neighbouring tooth with little or no drilling; a conventional bridge uses crowns on the neighbouring teeth. Bridges are fixed in place, so you don't take them out like a denture.
Veneers
A veneer is a thin layer of porcelain or composite resin bonded to the front of a tooth, to improve the look of teeth that are discoloured, chipped or heavily filled. Veneers are private treatment, and we'll talk through whether they're right for you and what the alternatives are.
Getting the shade right
For front teeth, our dental technician can come to the practice to see you, so the shape and shade of your crown, bridge or veneer can be matched in person.
NHS or private?
Crowns and bridges are available on the NHS. Some materials, such as all-ceramic, may be private. Your dentist will always explain the options and give you a written estimate before treatment starts. How NHS charges and private fees work.
To confirm: Is the dental technician still able to visit Bearsden for shade-matching consultations?
Questions people ask
How long does a crown take?
Usually two visits: one to prepare the tooth and take impressions or a scan, and a second to fit the crown. You'll have a temporary crown in between.
Is a bridge better than an implant?
Neither is better for everyone. A bridge uses the neighbouring teeth for support; an implant doesn't, but involves surgery and takes longer. We'll explain the pros and cons for your mouth.
