Dental crowns & dental bridges in Hammersmith

We make crowns and bridges from several materials, each with its own advantages. Porcelain and ceramic are favoured for their natural appearance, closely matching the colour and translucency of natural teeth, which makes them ideal for front teeth. Metal alloys, including gold, are exceptionally durable and resistant to wear, which suits back teeth that take the heaviest chewing forces. Which we recommend depends on where the tooth sits, how much force it takes, how it needs to look, and what you would prefer.

A crown sits over a single tooth, so the teeth either side are left alone. A bridge is different - it is supported by the teeth on each side of the gap, and those teeth need preparing before it can be fitted. That is a permanent change, so we will always explain what it involves before you decide, and tell you honestly whether a bridge is the best option in your case.

Yes. The natural tooth beneath a crown, and the teeth supporting a bridge, can still decay - particularly near the gumline where the restoration meets the tooth. Plaque builds up in those margins if it isn’t cleaned away properly. Regular brushing, flossing and check-ups with us are what keep the tooth underneath healthy.

It varies with the material, your oral hygiene and habits like grinding, but on average these restorations last between five and fifteen years. Over time they may need replacing due to wear, damage or a change in fit as the gum recedes. We check the condition of your restorations at every appointment and will tell you when one is nearing the end of its life, rather than waiting for it to fail.

Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss daily, paying particular attention to the margins where the restoration meets the tooth. An antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce the risk of gum disease and decay. Avoid using your teeth to open packaging and be careful with hard items like ice. Keep up with your check-ups and hygiene appointments, and we will spot any problems early.

While a temporary restoration is in place, avoid sticky or hard foods that could dislodge it. Once the permanent crown or bridge is fitted you can eat normally, though it is still worth being careful with very hard or sticky foods. We will give you specific advice based on your restoration before you leave.

Contact us straight away. Discomfort can indicate an ill-fitting or damaged restoration, or a problem with the tooth underneath, and a loose crown or bridge lets bacteria in, which risks decay or infection. Getting it looked at quickly usually means a simple fix rather than starting again.