Expert Dental Restorations for Golders Green Patients

Consider restoration if a tooth is damaged, decayed, or missing. It fits when a large cavity cannot be treated with a standard filling, a cracked or broken tooth from an accident, or a tooth weakened by root canal treatment that needs protection. It can also replace old metal fillings or close a gap from a missing tooth. Many Golders Green patients ask us to improve the shape or colour of a tooth. If you have trouble chewing or feel self conscious about a damaged tooth, a restoration offers a lasting fix.

First, you have a 60 minute consultation to check the tooth, take digital X rays or a 3D CBCT scan, and choose the best restoration. Next is the preparation appointment for crowns or bridges, about 60 to 90 minutes, where the tooth is reshaped under local anaesthetic and a digital scan is taken for the final piece. A temporary cover is placed while the lab makes the final restoration. About two weeks later you return for the final fitting in a 30 to 45 minute visit to bond the crown or bridge and check the bite. For simple fillings the whole process is usually finished in one visit of 45 to 60 minutes.

A crown covers the entire tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and look. We suggest crowns for teeth that are badly cracked, worn, or have had root canal treatment. A Golders Green patient recently came in with a fractured back molar. We used CAD/CAM to design a porcelain crown that matched his other teeth and let him chew without pain in two appointments.

A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth. It uses a false tooth held in place by crowns on the adjacent teeth. This fixed, non removable option stops nearby teeth from moving and restores your bite. It suits patients who are not good candidates for implants.

For smaller decay or damage we use tooth coloured composite fillings that blend with your tooth. For larger cavities an inlay or onlay offers a durable solution. These are custom made in a lab from porcelain or composite and bonded to the tooth. A Muswell Hill patient chose an onlay to replace a large old metal filling, strengthening the tooth and removing the visible metal.

After a crown or bridge is fitted you may notice mild sensitivity to hot and cold for a few days. Your bite might feel a little different at first, but you will adjust. Avoid very hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours to let the cement set. Long term care is simple: brush and floss daily and pay attention to the area where the crown meets the gum line. With good care, crowns and similar restorations can last 10 to 15 years or more. Red flags during office hours are severe pain, a loose restoration, or a bite that feels high after a few days. For emergencies outside hours, visit A and E or call 111.

For a severely damaged tooth the main option besides a crown is extraction. If a tooth is removed we can discuss replacement options like a dental implant or a removable partial denture. An implant replaces the tooth root with a titanium post and is a long lasting fix, though it costs more and takes longer. For a missing tooth a partial denture is cheaper than a fixed bridge but it is removable and may feel less stable. During your visit we’ll explain the pros and cons to help you choose what fits your health and budget.

As a private practice we offer clear pricing with no hidden fees. The cost varies by type, material, and complexity. For example a porcelain crown usually starts around £850. You will receive a detailed treatment plan with all costs at your initial visit. We accept private insurance from major providers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Our team can help you understand your coverage and complete the paperwork.

To pick what fits you best ask questions during any visit. For example, what material do you recommend for my crown or bridge and why? How long can I expect this restoration to last with proper care? Does the quoted price cover all appointments from preparation to final fitting? What warranty do you offer on your work? Can I see before and after photos of similar cases you have completed?