The Applecross Dentist is a dental clinic in the Applecross suburb of Perth that offers dental crowns and bridges for patients requiring tooth restoration and replacement solutions.
Dental crowns and bridges are fixed prosthetic restorations that are cemented onto existing teeth or dental implants. Crowns are used to cover and protect damaged, weakened, or extensively restored teeth, as well as to cover dental implants. Bridges replace missing teeth by using adjacent teeth or implants as support structures.
These custom-made restorations are designed to restore function and appearance. Individual treatment outcomes, fit, and longevity vary based on oral health, maintenance, and individual factors.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap, typically made from porcelain or porcelain combined with other materials, that covers the portion of a tooth above the gum line. Crowns are used to restore the structure and function of teeth that have sustained damage, fractures, or extensive decay.
Crowns may be recommended when teeth have large cavities, significant wear, cracks from trauma or old fillings, or following root canal treatment. The crown encases the prepared tooth to provide structural support and may help prevent further damage or the need for extraction.
Crowns are custom-made to fit over the prepared existing tooth and are cemented permanently in place. The treatment process typically involves tooth preparation, impressions or digital scanning, and placement of the final restoration.
How the Process Works
Your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing damaged areas and reshaping it to accommodate the crown. An impression is taken using an intra-oral scanner, a hand-held device that captures digital images inside your mouth, or traditional impression materials may be used.
The digital scan or impression is sent to a dental laboratory where a dental technician creates your custom crown designed to fit your prepared tooth. The process typically requires multiple appointments – one for tooth preparation and impressions, and another for crown placement.
A temporary crown may be placed to protect the prepared tooth while your permanent crown is being made. The final crown is then cemented permanently onto your prepared tooth.
Same Day Dental Crowns
The Applecross Dentist offers same-day dental crowns and veneers for suitable cases using CEREC technology. Dr Lily Taheri can create and fit dental crowns, veneers, inlays, and onlays in a single appointment when clinically appropriate.
CEREC technology uses digital scanning and milling to fabricate restorations chairside. This approach can reduce treatment time and the need for temporary restorations in suitable cases.
What is a Dental Bridge?
Dental bridges are fixed prosthetic devices used to replace one or more missing teeth. A bridge consists of artificial teeth (pontics) supported by crowns placed on the adjacent natural teeth or dental implants on either side of the gap.
The bridge is custom-made to fit your mouth and is cemented permanently in place. This treatment can restore chewing function and maintain proper spacing between remaining teeth.
Bridge treatment requirements:
- Healthy supporting teeth or implants adjacent to the missing tooth area
- Adequate bone and gum support for the supporting teeth
- Good oral hygiene to maintain long-term success
What are the advantages of a dental bridge?
When teeth are missing, adjacent teeth may shift into the empty space, and opposing teeth can move toward the gap. This movement may affect bite alignment and chewing function.
Potential benefits of dental bridges may include:
- Maintaining proper spacing between remaining teeth
- Restoring chewing function in the affected area
- Preventing movement of adjacent and opposing teeth
- Supporting facial structure in the treatment area
Treatment Process: Treatment typically requires multiple appointments. During the first visit, the supporting teeth are prepared by reshaping them to accommodate crowns. Digital scans or impressions are taken for laboratory fabrication. A temporary bridge protects the prepared teeth during the fabrication period.
At the second appointment, the temporary bridge is removed and the permanent bridge is fitted and cemented. Additional adjustments may be required to achieve proper fit and comfort.
Considerations: The procedure involves permanently altering the supporting teeth. Some discomfort, sensitivity, or swelling may occur during healing. Patients typically need to modify their diet temporarily while adjusting to the new restoration.
Individual treatment outcomes, comfort levels, adjustment periods, and long-term success vary significantly based on oral health, bite forces, and individual healing response.
How to Care for Your Dental Bridge
Dental bridges require ongoing maintenance and proper care to support their longevity and function. Following recommended care practices is essential for maintaining oral health around the restoration.
Daily care recommendations:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- Clean under the bridge daily using floss threaders, interdental brushes, or specialized bridge floss
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended by your dentist
- Attend regular dental checkups and professional cleanings as recommended
- Have your bridge examined for fit, function, and surrounding tissue health
- Address any concerns or discomfort promptly
- Avoid chewing hard substances such as ice or hard lollies that may damage the restoration
- Be cautious with sticky foods that may dislodge the bridge
- Consider using a nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth
Next steps – Book a Consultation
At your consultation we:
- Review your goals and medical history
- Examine your mouth and, if indicated, take 3D imaging
- Explain appropriate options, risks/benefits and timelines
- Provide a written, itemised plan for you to consider
Contact our Applecross reception to arrange a time that suits you.
Dental Crowns and Bridges FAQs
Considering dental crowns or bridges to restore damaged or missing teeth? These fixed restorations can help restore function and appearance when teeth are compromised or absent. Below are answers to commonly asked questions about treatment process, costs, and expectations.
Individual treatment experiences, outcomes, and longevity vary significantly based on oral health, bite forces, maintenance habits, and individual factors. A comprehensive consultation is required to assess your suitability and discuss realistic expectations for your specific situation.
When might a crown be recommended?
When might a crown be recommended?
Crowns may be recommended for teeth that are extensively damaged, weakened by large fillings, fractured, or following root canal treatment. They can also cover dental implants or address significant structural concerns.
Individual suitability and treatment needs vary based on tooth condition and individual circumstances.
How much do crowns and bridges cost?
How much do crowns and bridges cost?
The cost varies depending on materials used, treatment complexity, and individual case requirements. Single crowns typically cost less than bridges, which involve multiple units.
Dr Lily Taheri (DEN000XXXXXX) Registered dentist, general registration, will discuss specific costs and payment options during your consultation. Treatment costs vary based on individual needs and chosen materials.
Are crowns and bridges uncomfortable?
Are crowns and bridges uncomfortable?
Local anaesthesia is used during treatment to minimise discomfort. Some sensitivity or mild discomfort may occur during healing and adjustment periods. Pain medication may be recommended if needed.
Individual comfort levels, sensitivity, and healing experiences vary based on individual pain tolerance and healing response.
What does a dental bridge look like?
What does a dental bridge look like?
A dental bridge consists of crowns on supporting teeth connected to replacement teeth that fill the gap. Bridges are custom-made to match your existing teeth in colour, shape, and size as closely as possible.
Individual appearance outcomes, colour matching, and aesthetic results vary based on existing teeth characteristics and individual factors.
How long do crowns and bridges last?
How long do crowns and bridges last?
Crowns and bridges can potentially last many years with proper care and maintenance. Longevity depends on factors including oral hygiene, bite forces, grinding habits, and the condition of supporting structures.
Individual longevity varies significantly. Some restorations may require repair, adjustment, or replacement sooner than others due to various factors.
Are there risks or complications with crowns and bridges?
Are there risks or complications with crowns and bridges?
Potential risks include sensitivity, loosening, chipping, decay around margins, gum irritation, or need for root canal treatment. Supporting teeth may develop problems over time requiring additional treatment.
Bridge failure can occur due to decay in supporting teeth, cement failure, or structural issues. Regular dental visits help identify problems early.
Individual risk levels and complication rates vary based on oral health, maintenance, and individual factors.
What are the differences between bridges and dentures?
What are the differences between bridges and dentures?
Bridges: Fixed in place, supported by adjacent teeth or implants, cannot be removed by the patient, require healthy supporting structures.
Dentures: Removable, rest on gums, typically less expensive initially, can replace multiple teeth without affecting other teeth, may require adhesives.
Individual suitability and treatment outcomes vary for both options based on oral health, bone support, and individual preferences.
What are the alternatives to crowns and bridges?
What are the alternatives to crowns and bridges?
Alternatives may include dental implants, removable partial or complete dentures, or no treatment depending on the situation. For damaged teeth, alternatives might include large fillings or extractions.
Each option has different benefits, limitations, costs, and suitability requirements. Individual treatment suitability and outcomes vary depending on specific circumstances.
COMPLIANCE, AUTHORSHIP & REVIEW
Authorship/Review: Content reviewed by Dr Lily (DEN0001820641), registered dentist – Last reviewed: 31 August 2025. Medical information disclaimer: This page provides general information and is not a diagnosis. You will receive personalised advice after an examination. You may wish to seek a second opinion. Images: Clinical images are of our own patients with consent for advertising use. Outcomes vary. Advertising notes: No testimonials, inducements or guarantees are used. Therapeutic devices are described neutrally and factually. Comments/reviews are disabled on this page.