Prosthetic dentistry restores badly damaged teeth and replaces missing ones. Which option suits you depends on how many teeth are missing and where, the condition of your remaining teeth and gums, and your own preferences.

What they are

  • Crown. Covers the whole visible part of a tooth that has lost much of its structure or has had root canal treatment. Usually made of ceramic (for example zirconia or porcelain) or porcelain fused to metal.
  • Bridge. Replaces one or more missing teeth. It is held by crowns on the neighbouring teeth or by implants. It is fixed and is not taken out.
  • Fixed restoration on implants. Crowns or bridges supported by implants instead of natural teeth.
  • Removable denture. Partial, when several teeth are missing, or complete, when there are no teeth in one jaw. It is taken out for cleaning, and can also be stabilised on implants.

When they may be needed

  • A badly damaged tooth that cannot hold a filling or inlay.
  • A root-filled tooth that needs protection from fracture.
  • One or more missing teeth affecting chewing, speech or appearance.
  • Older prosthetic work that is worn or no longer fits well.

When a tooth is missing, the neighbouring teeth may gradually tilt into the gap and the opposing tooth may over-erupt. That is why it is worth discussing replacement early, even if the gap does not show.

What usually happens

  1. Examination and treatment plan. Clinical examination, X-rays and, where needed, study models. We explain the options with their pros and cons so that we can decide together.
  2. Preparation. Any decay, gum problems or teeth needing root canal treatment are treated first.
  3. Preparing the teeth. For crowns and bridges, the supporting teeth are shaped under local anaesthetic and an impression is taken (conventional or digital).
  4. Temporary restoration. A temporary crown or bridge is fitted while the final one is made in the dental laboratory.
  5. Try-in and fitting. Fit, colour and bite are checked and the work is cemented. Removable dentures usually need more visits for impressions, records and try-ins.
  6. Adjustments. After fitting, especially with removable dentures, small adjustments are often needed in the first few weeks.

Afterwards

  • Crowns and bridges are cleaned like natural teeth. Under a bridge you need special floss or a small brush, which we will show you.
  • The tooth under a crown can still decay at the gum margin, so hygiene and regular check-ups remain important.
  • Removable dentures are taken out at night (unless we advise otherwise), cleaned daily and kept moist.
  • Over the years the gums and bone change, and a denture may need relining or adjusting.

Frequently asked questions

Crown or implant?

They are not direct alternatives. A crown covers a tooth that is still there, while an implant replaces the root of a tooth that is missing. When a tooth can be kept safely, that is usually preferred.

Bridge or implant for a single missing tooth?

Both are accepted options. A bridge involves preparing the neighbouring teeth; an implant involves surgery, enough bone and more time. The choice depends on the neighbouring teeth, the bone, your general health and your preferences.

How many visits are needed?

Usually two or three for a crown, and more for bridges and dentures, depending on the extent of the work. We will give you a specific timeline after the examination.

Will the crown be noticeable?

Ceramic crowns are matched to the colour of your neighbouring teeth. If you are considering whitening, it is done first so the crown can be matched to the new shade.

Related treatments

Appointments and questions: +30 210 6743342 · [email protected]

The information on this page is general and does not replace an examination. The right treatment for you is decided after a clinical examination.

Appointments and questions: +30 210 6743342 · [email protected]