parallax background

Restorative Dentistry & Tooth Restoration Kelowna

Dental Crowns, Bridges and Fillings

At Knox Mountain Dentistry in Kelowna, our restorative dentistry services, including dental crowns and tooth bridges, are designed to restore function and beauty to your smile. Whether you need to replace a missing tooth, repair a damaged one, or improve your overall oral health, our team will provide personalized care with advanced techniques and modern technology. If you're looking for dental crowns or tooth bridges in Kelowna, we would be happy to help you at our modern, comforting office.

CROWNS

A dental crown is designed specifically to protect and restore a damaged tooth. Over the years, teeth endure significant wear and tear. If a tooth has a large filling, has been subjected to trauma, or has fractured, a dental crown might be the best solution.

Crowns typically come in two materials: gold and porcelain. Gold crowns are extremely durable and long-lasting, but are less desirable for front teeth due to their yellow colour. Porcelain crowns, on the other hand, are fabricated to match the colour, shape, and size of your natural teeth, making them quite popular in modern dentistry. With proper care and hygiene, both types of crowns can last for many years, restoring both function and appearance.

The process of getting a crown usually requires two appointments:

  1. Initial Visit: The damaged or decayed tooth is prepared by removing old fillings or decay. An impression of your natural tooth and bite is taken and sent to a dental lab to create the custom crown. In some cases, you may be asked to visit the lab for a precise colour match. A temporary crown will be used to protect the tooth in the meantime.
  2. Follow-Up Visit: The temporary crown is removed so that the permanent crown can be securely cemented into place.

Typically, the reasons that your dental professional may recommend a crown are:

  • Teeth that may be fractured or broken
  • Cosmetic correction
  • Teeth that are heavily decayed
  • Teeth having large fillings
  • A tooth where a root canal has been completed
Crowns & Bridges

Bridges

We offer different types of dental bridges to suit your unique needs. A traditional dental bridge uses crowns on either side of the gap to support the artificial tooth, making it the most common option for replacing a missing tooth. For patients seeking extra stability, implant-supported bridges are an excellent option, as they are anchored to dental implants, eliminating the need to alter nearby teeth while providing a secure and durable solution for replacing multiple missing teeth. Your dentist will help you choose the best option to restore your smile and maintain proper function.

Like crowns, tooth bridges typically require two visits:

  1. Preparation Visit: The abutment teeth are prepared in the same way as for crowns. Impressions are taken and sent to the lab to craft the bridge.
  2. Placement Visit: Once the dental bridge is ready, it is permanently cemented to the abutment teeth.

A bridge may be suggested in the following situations:

  • Replacing a missing tooth or teeth
  • To aid in chewing
  • Avoid the use of a removable partial denture
  • Where dental implants are not recommended

Fillings

Fillings are one of the most common dental restoration methods used to repair tooth decay and restore strength to a damaged tooth. A filling replaces decayed or damaged portions of the tooth and prevents further deterioration.

We offer different types of fillings, including tooth-coloured composite resin and porcelain. Composite and porcelain fillings are designed to blend effortlessly with your natural teeth, offering a durable and visually pleasing result. 

The process for placing a filling is straightforward:

  1. The dentist removes any decay to prepare the tooth or teeth for restoration.
  2. The selected filling material is carefully applied and shaped to match the natural structure of the tooth.
  3. The material is hardened using a special light, leaving your tooth ready for immediate use.

Fillings are an effective way to:

  • Protect the tooth from further decay
  • Restore the tooth’s function
  • Address minor chips or cracks
  • Maintain a healthy smile with proper care

Regular dental visits and engaging in good oral hygiene are essential to prolong the lifespan of your fillings.

FAQs About Crowns & Bridges

1How long can I expect a crown or bridge to last?
Crowns and bridges are designed to last many years, often a decade or more with proper care. Daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental check‑ups help them stay strong and prevent decay at the margins. Eventually, wear and tear, bite changes, or gum recession may mean replacement is needed, but many people enjoy long‑term success.
2Can a crown or bridge get a cavity?
The material of a crown or bridge can’t decay, but the natural tooth underneath and the surrounding gum tissue can develop decay. That’s why good oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings are critical. If the seal around the restoration breaks down over time, decay could develop at the edge if bacteria are left unchecked.
3How long does it take to get a crown or bridge placed?
Traditional crowns and bridges typically require two visits. The first visit involves preparing the tooth or teeth, taking an impression, and placing a temporary restoration. Once your lab‑made crown or bridge is ready, the second visit is for fitting and cementing the final piece.
4Can I eat normally with a crown or bridge?
Yes, once the crown or bridge is securely in place, you can return to most normal eating habits. It’s a good idea to avoid very hard or sticky foods in the first few days as you get used to the restoration. Over time, most people chew confidently and comfortably without noticing much difference from natural teeth.
5What happens if a crown or bridge feels loose?
If a crown or bridge feels loose, it’s important to contact your dentist right away. A loose restoration can lead to decay, discomfort, or damage to the supporting teeth if left untreated. Your dental team can re‑cement it or check for other issues that may need attention.
6Can a crown improve my bite or chewing ability?
Yes, a well‑fitted crown can restore the shape and function of a damaged tooth, helping it meet its opposing tooth correctly when you bite. This improves chewing efficiency and comfort. Proper alignment also helps prevent extra wear on neighbouring teeth and supports good jaw health over time.

Book an appointment for your Kelowna tooth restoration at Knox Mountain Dentistry today! Our knowledgeable team will consult with you on what solution will bring you the greatest comfort and functional improvement.

Contact Us