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Dental Crowns and Bridges in Kempsey, Port Macquarie & Taree

Restore a damaged tooth or replace a missing one — with a result that functions like natural.
needed

When Is a Crown Needed?

Crowns are recommended when a tooth is too damaged to be reliably restored with a filling. Common situations: a tooth that has had root canal treatment (which makes it more brittle), a cracked tooth under significant load, a severely worn tooth, or a tooth with decay so extensive that little natural structure remains. Patients across Kempsey, Wauchope, and the Macleay Valley frequently present with back molars that have fractured around old large fillings — crowning is the most durable solution.

Making

How Is a Crown Made?

Crown fabrication takes two appointments. At the first, your dentist prepares the tooth, takes impressions, and fits a temporary crown. The permanent crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory. At the second appointment — usually 1–2 weeks later — the temporary is removed and the permanent crown is fitted, adjusted and cemented.

Composite Bonding

Dental Bridges — Replacing a Missing Tooth

A bridge is an option when one or more teeth are missing and the neighbouring teeth on either side are healthy enough to serve as anchors. The anchor teeth are crowned, and the artificial tooth is suspended between them. A bridge is fixed — it does not come out — and functions similarly to natural teeth for eating and speaking. For patients in Forster, Bonny Hills and surrounding areas, a bridge can be the most practical tooth replacement available locally.

frequently asked questions

How long does a dental crown last?
A well-fitted crown cared for properly typically lasts 10–15 years. The crown itself rarely fails — most issues arise at the margins where the crown meets the tooth, often due to decay. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene maximise lifespan.
Does getting a crown hurt?
The preparation appointment uses local anaesthetic. You may have some sensitivity to temperature for a few days after, particularly while wearing the temporary crown. The permanent crown, once fitted, should feel comfortable and natural.
What is a crown made of?
Tooth-coloured ceramic (zirconia or porcelain-fused-to-zirconia) is standard for most teeth — strong, natural-looking, and biocompatible. Gold or metal alloy may be recommended for back molars in high-load situations. Your dentist will discuss material options at the consultation.
Is a bridge better than an implant?
Both are valid tooth replacement options. A bridge is faster and less expensive, but requires modifying the neighbouring teeth. An implant preserves those teeth fully and is the most biomechanically natural replacement. Your dentist will help you weigh the options based on your specific situation.
Can a bridge be placed on the same day as an extraction?
Not usually. After extraction, the bone and gum need to heal before a bridge can be placed accurately — typically 6–8 weeks. In some cases a temporary solution is provided in the interim.
Does the bridge require special cleaning?
Yes. A floss threader or interdental brush is needed to clean beneath the pontic (the false tooth in the bridge). Your dentist or oral health therapist will demonstrate the technique at the fitting appointment.

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