A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged, weakened, or heavily filled tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by attaching artificial teeth (pontics) to the neighbouring teeth—or to implants—so you can chew and smile with confidence. Both are made to match your natural teeth in colour and shape and, with good care, can last many years.
At Brown Street Dental, Dr. Sunny Golwala and our team provide crowns and bridges using quality materials and careful planning. We focus on a comfortable fit, a natural look, and clear communication at every step—from preparation and impressions to fitting your final restoration and aftercare advice.
The Procedure
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Examination & Assessment
Your dentist will:
- Examine the tooth or area where teeth are missing, and check your gums and bite
- Take X-rays or scans to assess the supporting teeth and bone
- Discuss whether a crown or bridge is right for you and explain materials (e.g. porcelain, ceramic, metal-backed)
- Outline the steps, timeline, and any temporary restorations
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Preparation
For crowns and bridges:
- Local anaesthetic is used so you are comfortable
- For a crown: the tooth is reshaped so the crown can fit over it
- For a bridge: the teeth on either side of the gap (abutments) are prepared to hold the bridge
- The preparation is kept as conservative as possible while ensuring a strong, accurate fit
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Impressions or Digital Scan
To create your custom restoration:
- Impressions or a digital scan of your teeth are taken and sent to the dental laboratory
- Shade is chosen so the crown or bridge matches your natural teeth
- The lab fabricates your permanent crown or bridge—this usually takes a couple of weeks
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Temporary Crown or Bridge
While you wait:
- A temporary crown or bridge is fitted to protect the prepared teeth and maintain appearance and function
- You will be advised to avoid very hard or sticky foods on that side and to brush gently around the temporary
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Fitting the Permanent Crown or Bridge
At your next visit:
- The temporary is removed and the permanent restoration is tried in
- Fit, bite, and appearance are checked and adjusted as needed
- Once you and your dentist are happy, the crown or bridge is cemented (or fixed) in place
- You will be shown how to care for it and when to return for a check if needed
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Aftercare Advice
To keep your crown or bridge in good condition:
- Brush and floss regularly; your dentist may suggest special floss or interdental tools for around the bridge
- Attend regular checkups and cleanings so we can monitor the restoration and supporting teeth
- Avoid using the crown or bridge to bite very hard objects (e.g. ice, pen caps)
- Contact us if you feel looseness, sensitivity, or discomfort
Benefits of Crowns & Bridge
Why patients choose custom restorations
- ✓Crowns restore and protect a damaged or weak tooth so you can chew and smile with confidence
- ✓Bridges replace missing teeth without surgery, using the support of neighbouring teeth (or implants)
- ✓Custom-made to match your natural tooth colour and shape for a natural look
- ✓Improve bite and chewing and can help prevent neighbouring teeth from shifting
- ✓With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, crowns and bridges can last many years, often a decade or more
- ✓Durable materials (e.g. porcelain, ceramic) resist staining and wear well for everyday use
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is a dental crown?A dental crown is a cap that fits over a damaged, weakened, or heavily filled tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, strength, and appearance and is made to match your natural teeth. Crowns are often used after root canal treatment, for large fillings, or for cracked or worn teeth.
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What is a dental bridge?A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap (or by implants). Bridges restore your smile and chewing ability without removable dentures.
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How long do crowns and bridges last?With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, crowns and bridges often last 10 years or more, and many last much longer. Their lifespan depends on the health of the supporting teeth and gums, your bite, and how well you care for them.
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Does getting a crown or bridge hurt?The tooth and area are numbed with local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during preparation or fitting. You may feel some pressure. Afterward, mild sensitivity is possible for a few days. If you have anxiety, tell us—we can make the visit more comfortable.
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How long does the process take?Crown and bridge treatment usually requires two visits: one for preparation and impressions, and a second (typically 2–3 weeks later) to fit the permanent restoration. Sometimes same-day or expedited options are available—your dentist will explain what’s possible for your case.
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How do I care for my crown or bridge?Brush and floss daily, including around and under the bridge. Your dentist may recommend a floss threader or interdental brushes. Attend regular checkups and cleanings and avoid biting very hard items on the crown or bridge to prevent damage.
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Crown vs. filling—when is a crown needed?A filling is used when there is enough healthy tooth structure. A crown is recommended when the tooth is too damaged, weak, or heavily filled to be restored with a filling alone. Your dentist will explain which option is best for your tooth.
Need a crown or bridge? Contact Brown Street Dental for a consultation.