Crowns and Bridges
Restoring Function and Protecting Natural Teeth
What Are Crowns and Bridges?
Crowns and bridges are fixed dental restorations used to repair, protect, or replace damaged or missing teeth. At Lithgow Dental, we provide both treatments using durable, tooth-coloured materials designed to blend with your natural smile and support proper bite function.
Crowns are commonly used when a tooth has been weakened by decay, fracture, or previous large fillings. Bridges are used to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth by anchoring to the natural teeth or implants on either side.
When Might a Crown Be Recommended?
A dental crown is a protective cap that covers a tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. Your dentist may recommend a crown for the following reasons:
- A tooth is heavily decayed or broken
A large filling has weakened the tooth structure - A tooth has undergone root canal treatment
- To cover a misshapen or discoloured tooth
- To support a dental bridge or implant
Crowns help restore the strength of compromised teeth and protect them from further damage.
When Is a Dental Bridge Appropriate?
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by joining artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth or implants. Bridges may be recommended if:
- You are missing one or more teeth in a row
- The surrounding teeth are healthy and suitable to support the bridge
- You’re looking for a fixed alternative to a removable denture
By restoring the gap left by missing teeth, a bridge helps maintain proper chewing function and prevents neighbouring teeth from shifting out of place
What Materials Are Used?
At Lithgow Dental, we offer tooth-coloured porcelain and ceramic crowns and bridges for a natural appearance. In some cases, zirconia may be used for added strength in the back teeth. Gold or metal-based materials may also be available depending on clinical needs and preferences.
During your consultation, we’ll discuss material options based on the location of the tooth, bite forces, and cosmetic goals.
Professional cleaning helps prevent:
- Gingivitis (early gum inflammation)
- Periodontal disease (advanced gum and bone infection)
- Decay between teeth or near the gumline
- Bad breath caused by bacterial build-up
The Treatment Process
- Consultation and Assessment
We begin with a comprehensive assessment, including X-rays or 3D imaging if needed, to evaluate your tooth structure and surrounding tissues. - Tooth Preparation
For a crown, the tooth is shaped to make room for the restoration. For a bridge, the neighbouring teeth (abutments) are also prepared to support the bridge. - Impressions and Shade Matching
Digital or traditional impressions are taken to create a precise model of your teeth. We also select a shade that matches your natural enamel for a seamless appearance. - Temporary Crown or Bridge
A temporary restoration may be placed while the final crown or bridge is fabricated in a dental lab. - Final Placement
Once the restoration is ready, it is carefully fitted and bonded. The bite is adjusted to ensure comfort and function.
Advantages of Crowns and Bridges
- Help preserve natural teeth by adding structural support
- Restore the ability to chew and speak clearly
- Protect teeth following root canal therapy or large fillings
- Prevent unwanted tooth movement caused by gaps
- Made with modern materials designed to look and feel natural
When properly cared for, crowns and bridges can last many years and play a key role in maintaining long-term oral health.
Looking After Your Restoration
To maximise the lifespan of your crown or bridge, it’s important to:
- Brush and floss daily, especially around the gumline
- Avoid chewing very hard foods or using teeth to open items
- Attend routine check-ups for professional cleaning and monitoring
- Use floss threaders or interdental brushes for bridge care
Your dentist may recommend additional aids to help clean under a bridge or around crowns effectively.
Why Choose Lithgow Dental?
- Experienced team using evidence-based treatment protocols
- Custom crowns and bridges made with high-quality materials
- In-depth consultation and treatment planning
- Digital imaging and impression options for accuracy and comfort
- Focus on patient education and long-term care outcomes
We aim to ensure that every restoration fits well, functions properly, and meets your expectations for oral health and comfort.
How long do crowns and bridges last?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental care, they can last 10 years or longer. Lifespan varies depending on individual habits and oral health.
Do crowns or bridges look natural?
Yes. We use tooth-coloured materials such as porcelain or zirconia to match the colour, shape, and translucency of your natural teeth.
Is the treatment painful?
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, and most patients find it comfortable. Temporary sensitivity may occur after preparation.
Can I eat normally with a crown or bridge?
Yes. Once the restoration is fitted and the bite is balanced, you should be able to eat most foods as normal. We recommend avoiding very sticky or hard items.
Will a bridge affect the surrounding teeth?
A traditional bridge requires the neighbouring teeth to be prepared for support. Your dentist will assess if these teeth are suitable before proceeding.
Are crowns or bridges covered by health funds?
Some private health funds may contribute to the cost. We can provide item codes and help you check your coverage before treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
