How long do crowns take to make?

Two visits are usually required. For crowns and veneers the first appointment is spent preparing the tooth followed by an impression (dental mould).  This is sent to the laboratory where a dental technician will construct your crown.  A temporary crown or veneer will be placed before you leave to protect the tooth in between visits.  Around 2-3 weeks later the definitive crown will be tried in and fitted.

Are there any alternatives to crowns and veneers?

A crown or veneer may not be the best option for your tooth.  Teeth can sometimes be rebuilt using a white filling material.  The advantage of such materials is that it does not require any preparation of the underlying tooth.

How successful are bridges?

Bridges are generally very successful. 80-90% of bridges will last for 10 years or longer.  However, 10-15% of conventional bridge supporting teeth may eventually require root canal treatment. Resin retained bridges have a similar survival rate of 80% at 10 years.

What alternatives of bridges are there?

Depending on where the gap is one option may be to leave the gap. If replacement of the tooth is important a removable denture or fixed dental implant could be considered.

How many visits do dentures take to construct?

This will depend on the situation. Often primary impressions are recorded in the first visit.  The laboratory will construct an impression tray that is tailored to your mouth.  In the second visit more accurate impressions of your mouth are recorded.  A subsequent visit is needed to record your bite and position of the replacement teeth. The dental technician will set up the teeth on a wax base to allow a try in of the proposed denture.  If both yourself and the treating dentist are happy the denture can be constructed.  A final visit to fit the denture is then needed.  Often dentures will require some minor alterations after a period of wearing as you adapt to the new dentures.  In total around 6 appointments are needed from start to finish but this can vary depending on each case.

How long do dentures last?

Usually dentures last between 5-10 years. After this time a replacement may be needed. This is because over time your mouth gradually changes shape.  A poorly fitting denture can actually be detrimental to your gum health if you have remaining teeth.  You are also more likely to develop mucosal irritation from a poorly fitting denture.  If you have had teeth out before the denture was made a replacement may be needed as soon as 6-12 months.  This is because the area of the tooth removal changes shape much more quickly.  If multiple teeth have been removed the dentures can become loose much more quickly.  A reline of the fitting surface may be done before a new denture is made at 12 months.