Dental Crowns and Bridges in North London

You may need a crown if a tooth is heavily filled, cracked, has had root canal treatment, or is badly discoloured. The crown acts as a protective cap to strengthen the remaining tooth. A bridge fits when you have one or more missing teeth with healthy teeth on either side. The adjacent teeth anchor the bridge to support a false tooth, bridging the gap. Many people in North London choose crowns to save a compromised tooth from extraction, while others prefer a bridge as a fixed alternative to a partial denture. Bridges have high success rates, with more than 90 percent lasting over ten years with good hygiene.

Most crowns and bridges require two visits. The first visit lasts about 60 to 90 minutes for preparation. We numb the area and reshape the tooth or teeth to create space for the restoration. Then we take precise digital scans of your teeth, avoiding messy impressions. A temporary crown or bridge is placed to protect your teeth while the final piece is made in the lab, which usually takes around two weeks. At the second appointment, about 30 minutes, we remove the temporary, check the fit and color, and permanently bond the restoration with strong dental cement.

After the first appointment you may notice temporary sensitivity in the prepared tooth for a few days. The temporary crown or bridge needs careful care, so avoid very hard or sticky foods. When the permanent restoration is in place it should feel comfortable right away. Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and, for bridges, using floss or interdental brushes to clean underneath the false tooth. With good care crowns and bridges can last ten to fifteen years or longer. If you have persistent pain or the restoration feels loose, call our practice during office hours. For after hours emergencies visit A&E or call 111.

While crowns and bridges are strong options, other possibilities exist. For a single missing tooth a dental implant is the preferred alternative to a bridge. An implant is a titanium post placed in the jawbone and it does not require altering adjacent teeth. It has a higher initial cost but can last a lifetime. For a damaged tooth that might otherwise need a crown, a large composite filling or a porcelain onlay could work if the damage is not too extensive. A removable partial denture is the most budget friendly way to replace missing teeth but it is less stable and comfortable than a fixed bridge. We will review all suitable options for your situation during your consultation.

To decide what is right for you, here are key questions to ask any dentist. Start by asking what material they recommend such as porcelain, zirconia, or E max and why it is best for your tooth. Also ask about the expected lifespan of the restoration with proper care. Clarify the total cost and whether it includes all appointments, lab work, and the final fitting. Finally ask about any guarantee or warranty on the work and what happens if there are issues with fit or colour after placement.

As a private practice we offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees. The cost of a dental crown or a single unit bridge depends on the material used, but prices start from around £750 per unit. For example a three unit bridge to replace one missing tooth is priced based on three units. This fee includes the preparation appointment, digital scans, the temporary restoration, lab fees, and the final fitting appointment. We accept private dental insurance plans from providers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please contact us with your policy details and we can help you understand your coverage for restorative treatments.