What is a dental crown?
It is a cap that covers the whole visible part of a tooth and protects it when it is weak, cracked, heavily filled or has had root canal treatment.
Crowns can be made of ceramic, metal, or metal with a tooth-coloured layer.
What is a dental bridge?
It replaces one or more missing teeth. The false tooth is held in place by crowns on the teeth on each side of the gap.
A bridge stays fixed in your mouth, so you do not take it out to clean it.
Do I need a crown or a bridge?
You may need a crown if a tooth is damaged, or a bridge if a tooth is missing. Your dentist may suggest a crown for:
- a tooth with a large filling or a crack
- a broken or badly worn tooth
- a back tooth that has had root canal treatment
A bridge may suit you if you have a gap and the teeth next to it are healthy enough to support it. A dental implant or a denture can also fill a gap.
How is a crown or bridge fitted?
- Your dentist examines the teeth and takes X-rays.
- They go through the materials with you and tell you the cost.
- At the first appointment, the tooth or teeth are numbed and shaped to make room for the crown.
- A mould or scan of your teeth is taken, and the shade is chosen.
- A temporary crown or bridge is fitted while the final one is made.
- At the next appointment, the final crown or bridge is checked, adjusted and fixed in place.
How many appointments does it take?
Usually two visits, about one to two weeks apart while the crown or bridge is made. These are estimates; the timing and number of visits may vary after your dentist assesses your needs.
How do I look after a crown or bridge?
Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth. Under a bridge, you will need a floss threader or a small brush, and your dentist will show you how. Keep up your check-ups.
How long does a crown last?
There is no set number of years. Grinding your teeth, decay at the edge of the crown and gum disease can all shorten its life. Check-ups help catch these early.
My temporary crown came off. What should I do?
Keep the crown and WhatsApp or call your clinic. Try not to chew on that side until it is put back.
Can CHAS or MediSave help with the cost?
If you are 60 or older, Flexi-MediSave can help. MOH has announced that it can be used for crowns and root canal treatment at CHAS dental clinics. See the MOH website for details and limits, and the CHAS website for the dental services CHAS covers.
All three of our clinics take part in CHAS and can make Flexi-MediSave claims.
How much does a crown or bridge cost?
It depends on the material and the number of teeth. You will know the cost before any tooth is shaped, and you can also ask when you book.
How do I book?
WhatsApp or call the clinic nearest you: Ang Mo Kio Ave 10, Ang Mo Kio (Central) or Clementi. Each clinic’s numbers are on our clinics page, or you can send a booking request.