A damaged or missing tooth can affect more than how your smile looks. You may notice discomfort when chewing or feel that your bite no longer fits together as it should. These changes often point to structural issues that require more than a simple filling.
At Dr S Adams Dental Practice, crowns, veneers, and bridges are used to restore the strength and function of your teeth while maintaining a natural appearance. If you are looking for a dentist in Cape Town, addressing these concerns early can help prevent further disruption to your oral health.
What are crowns, veneers, and bridges used for?
These treatments are used to restore or replace teeth that are no longer functioning as they should. The approach depends on the condition of your teeth and what needs to be achieved.
At our dental practice in Cape Town, these options may be considered when:
- A tooth has been weakened by decay or previous treatment
- The structure of a tooth has changed over time
- A tooth is missing
- The appearance of your teeth has been affected
Each option is selected based on your specific needs, ensuring that function and appearance are addressed.
What is the difference between these treatments?
Each option serves a different purpose depending on what your tooth requires.
- Crowns cover and protect a damaged tooth, restoring its strength
- Veneers are placed on the front surface to improve how a tooth looks
- Bridges replace missing teeth by using neighbouring teeth for support
If the inner part of the tooth has been affected, treatment such as root canal treatment may be required before placing a crown.
Can you receive a crown in a single visit?
Many crowns traditionally require multiple appointments. At Dr S Adams Dental Practice, selected cases may be suitable for same-day CEREC crowns.
Using digital scanning and in-house design and milling technology, a custom crown can often be planned, created, and fitted during a single appointment. This reduces the need for temporary crowns and multiple visits while restoring the strength and function of your tooth more efficiently.
Suitability depends on the condition of the tooth and your individual treatment requirements, which can be discussed during your consultation.
How is your treatment planned?
Before treatment begins, your teeth and surrounding structures are assessed to determine the most suitable option. This helps ensure that the restoration fits comfortably within your bite.
Planning also considers how the restoration will function over time. In some cases, earlier care, such as repairing smaller areas of damage with a composite filling or bonding, may be completed first.
What can you expect after treatment?
Once completed, your restored tooth should feel stable within your bite. You can return to your normal routine with a few simple considerations:
- Avoid excessive pressure on the treated area
- Maintain regular brushing and cleaning between teeth
- Attend follow-up visits
Ongoing care helps ensure that your restoration continues to function as expected.
When should you consider this treatment?
If a tooth feels unstable, appears different, or is missing, it is worth having it assessed. Early evaluation can help prevent further damage and give you a clear understanding of your options. Contact Dr S Adams Dental Practice to arrange your visit with a dentist in Cape Town and discuss the most appropriate treatment for your needs.