A crown is sometimes known as a 'cap'. Crowns are an ideal restoration for teeth that have been broken, or have been weakened by decay or a very large filling.

A crown could be used for a number of other reasons, for instance:
•	You may have discolored fillings and would like to improve the appearance of the tooth
•	You may have had a root filling which will need a crown to protect it
•	It may help hold a bridge or denture firmly in place.

A bridge is usually used where there are fewer teeth to replace, or when the missing teeth are only on one side of the mouth. Bridges are usually made of a precious metal base.

If the bridge will show, porcelain is then bonded to the base. Sometimes, there are other non-precious metals used in the base to reduce the cost.

You should replace missing teeth for a number of reasons. Your appearance is one reason.

Another is that the gap left by a missing tooth can mean greater strain is put on the teeth at either side.

A gap can also mean your 'bite' is affected, because the teeth next to the space can lean into the gap and alter the way the upper and lower teeth bite together.

This can then lead to food getting packed into the gap, which causes both decay and gum disease.

Preventive Dentistry >> Gum Disease

Screening for gum disease forms an integral part of your routine examination. Gum disease describes swelling, soreness or infection of the tissues supporting the teeth. There are two main forms of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontal disease.