Expert Dental Crowns & Bridges in Bournemouth

Most patients report that getting a crown or bridge is no more uncomfortable than having a routine filling. We use local anaesthetic to completely numb the area, ensuring you feel no pain during the procedure.

After the anaesthetic wears off, you might experience some mild sensitivity or discomfort for a day or two, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. The temporary crown phase might feel slightly different than your natural tooth, but any discomfort is typically minimal and temporary.

For especially anxious patients, we offer sedation options to ensure complete comfort throughout your treatment.

Caring for crowns and bridges is similar to caring for your natural teeth, with a few additional considerations:

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Floss daily, using special floss threaders for bridges to clean underneath the false tooth
• Use an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria around the restoration
• Avoid chewing extremely hard foods (ice, hard candy) which could damage the restoration
• Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth while sleeping
• Attend regular check-ups so we can monitor the condition of your restoration

With proper care, your crown or bridge can provide many years of comfortable service.

Depending on your specific situation, there may be alternatives to crowns and bridges:

For damaged teeth (crown alternatives):

• Dental fillings: For smaller areas of decay or damage
• Veneers: For primarily cosmetic issues on front teeth
• Inlays/Onlays: For moderate damage that doesn't require full coverage
• Tooth extraction: Only recommended when the tooth cannot be saved

For missing teeth (bridge alternatives):

• Dental implants: A permanent, standalone solution for missing teeth
• Partial dentures: Removable appliances that replace multiple missing teeth
• No treatment: Not recommended as it can lead to further dental problems

During your consultation, we'll discuss all available options and help you choose the best solution for your specific needs, budget, and preferences.

Yes, damaged crowns and bridges can often be repaired, depending on the extent of the damage:

• Minor chips: Can often be polished or repaired with composite resin
• Loose crowns: Can frequently be re-cemented if the underlying tooth is healthy
• Complete failure: Typically requires replacement of the restoration

If your crown or bridge becomes damaged, it's important to contact us as soon as possible. We offer emergency appointments for crown and bridge repairs to minimize discomfort and prevent further damage to the underlying tooth structure.

In many cases, repairs can be completed in a single visit, though more significant damage may require a new restoration to be crafted.