Dental crown
A crown fits over a prepared tooth to restore its shape, strength and function. It may also be used over an implant-supported restoration in appropriate cases.
Restoring a damaged tooth or replacing a missing one starts with understanding what is still healthy, what needs protection and which restoration is right for the tooth.
A crown is used to restore and protect a damaged or weakened tooth. A bridge can replace a missing tooth by using supporting teeth or, in selected cases, implants. The right choice is not made from the name of the restoration alone β it depends on the condition of the teeth, the bite and the amount of healthy structure available.
A crown may be considered after extensive decay, a large filling, a fracture or root canal treatment when the tooth needs additional protection. A bridge may be considered when one or more teeth are missing and the surrounding teeth and supporting tissues are suitable.
The important distinction is simple: a crown restores a tooth that is still present; a bridge is one way of replacing a missing tooth or teeth.
A crown fits over a prepared tooth to restore its shape, strength and function. It may also be used over an implant-supported restoration in appropriate cases.
A bridge fills a gap left by a missing tooth or teeth. The design depends on the gap, the neighbouring teeth, the supporting tissues and the overall treatment plan.
The exact number of visits and sequence varies by case. The aim is to make the restoration fit the tooth, function well and look appropriate for the mouth.
The tooth, surrounding tissues, bite and available tooth structure are examined. Any treatment needed before the crown or bridge is planned first.
Where appropriate, the tooth is prepared to make space for the restoration. A damaged tooth may need a build-up before it can support a crown.
The restoration is made to the planned shape and material. A temporary restoration may be used while the final one is being prepared.
The final restoration is checked for fit, bite, appearance and comfort before it is fixed in place. Follow-up and good home care help protect the result.
These are the questions worth answering before deciding on a restoration.
No. The decision depends on the tooth and how much sound structure remains. Teeth that have had root canal treatment can sometimes need additional protection, particularly where substantial structure has been lost.
There is no guaranteed lifespan. The tooth underneath, the fit of the restoration, bite forces, oral hygiene and regular dental care all affect how long it remains serviceable.
There is no universal best material. Zirconia, all-ceramic and metal-ceramic options each have different strengths and aesthetic characteristics. The material should suit the tooth and the clinical need.
Sometimes. It depends on where the fracture is, how much healthy tooth remains and whether the tooth can be restored reliably. A broken tooth should be assessed rather than assumed to need extraction.
The tooth is normally treated with local anaesthetic during preparation. Some sensitivity or gum tenderness can occur afterwards, but persistent or severe pain should be discussed with the dentist.
There is no useful single price without knowing the number of teeth, material and any treatment needed beforehand. The clinic can give you a clearer estimate once the teeth have been examined and the treatment plan is known.
It depends on the tooth, the preparation required and the type of restoration. Some cases need more than one appointment because the final crown or bridge is made to fit the individual mouth.
The alternatives depend on the tooth and how much healthy structure remains. In some cases a filling or other restoration may be appropriate; for a missing tooth, an implant or removable option may also be considered.
Madhav Dental Clinic is in Kalkaji, South Delhi. Dr. Priti's approach is to assess the tooth first, preserve healthy structure where possible and explain why a particular restoration is being recommended. Specialist support is arranged when a case requires it.
Understand the condition of the tooth before choosing a restoration.
Protect and restore the natural tooth when it can be predictably maintained.
Know what is needed, what options exist and what happens next.
Speak with the clinic and arrange an appointment with Dr. Priti to discuss the right restoration for your tooth.
For treatment cost or diagnosis, an in-person check is needed β this is for general questions.
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