Crowns are mainly used when not much natural tooth is left and we wish to protect and re-build the remaining tooth. They are usually made from metal, porcelain or ceramic. The tooth is prepared in order to accept the crown and moulds are created so that the laboratory can make your crown. The dentist will then check the fit and appearance of your crown with you before cementing in place.
Bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. The teeth either side of the gap are used as supports for the replacement teeth. The replacement teeth are matched to the shape and colour of your natural teeth. The attachment to the supporting tooth can either be by a crown (conventional bridge) or a bonded metal wing (resin retained bridge). The dentist will offer you advice on which treatment options are possible.