When a tooth is heavily decayed it is more likely to fracture and lose considerable tooth substance. The greater risk is that a fracture line may go below the margin of the gum which makes restoration more difficult or near impossible.

With old technology, dental crowns always needed to be made with a metal foundation. Today, we can make them out of pure porcelain, ceramic or aesthetic reinforced resins. There are still occasions on the back teeth when the durability of a metal crown makes it the restoration of choice. For teeth that are badly damaged, dental crowns can be an effective treatment option. Dental crowns cover the entire visible surface of your affected tooth and add strength, durability and tooth stability.

Dental crowns, also known as caps, restore damaged teeth. A crown covers a tooth and mimics the shape, size and color of the surrounding teeth. Dental crowns are indicated for cracked teeth and teeth with deep cavities; to protect teeth that have been filled by root canal treatment; to provide extra support for bridges; and to cover poorly shaped or colored teeth.

Dental crowns may be made of metal, porcelain, or newer restorative materials. They are custom-made and fitted for each patient in conformation with the patient's bite, and the size and length of the natural teeth. Crowns typically last five to eight years, but can last much longer with proper oral hygiene.

Dental bridges replace missing teeth and offer support for the surrounding teeth to help retain the integrity of the jaw and face structure. A bridge stabilizes the bite of a patient who is missing one or more teeth. Dental bridges prevent the surrounding teeth from moving or shifting in the mouth. A missing tooth that is not replaced may cause surrounding teeth to become unstable and require removal … or make the teeth harder to clean, compromising oral health … or change the shape of a face and diminish the beauty of a smile. Unlike partial dentures, bridges are permanent; patients cannot remove them. There are three main kinds of bridges. In a traditional bridge, the pontic ("false tooth") is fused between the two dental crowns of the abutment teeth on either side. In a Maryland bridge, a metal band (hidden from view) binds the pontic to the abutment teeth. A cantilever bridge is necessary when there is an abutment tooth on only one side of the pontic. Maryland bridges work best when the teeth are front teeth adjoining healthy teeth that do not have large fillings.