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Dental crowns and bridges

Dental crowns are laboratory-made artificial restorations that cover and restore the shape and function of a severely damaged tooth. A dental bridge is a solution for replacing a missing tooth, where the supporting teeth are crowned and the artificial tooth is fixed between them.

Text reviewed by specialist:

dr Priit Niibo

Prosthodontist

Published

Text updated

When to see a specialist

  • Extensively damaged tooth: A large filling, fracture, or extensive damage that has weakened the tooth.
  • Missing tooth or teeth: One or more missing teeth that need to be replaced.
  • Weakened tooth: For example, a tooth that requires additional support following root canal treatment.
  • Restoration of a dental implant: Placement of a permanent crown on a dental implant.
  • Aesthetic restoration of teeth: Restoration of the shape, colour, or overall appearance of the teeth.

Common symptoms

  • Broken or cracked tooth

    Damage that may be too extensive to repair with a conventional filling.

  • Difficulty chewing

    A damaged or missing tooth makes eating uncomfortable.

  • Dissatisfaction with the appearance of the teeth

    A desire to improve the shape, colour, or overall appearance of the teeth.

  • Recurring tooth damage

    The tooth repeatedly breaks, or the filling repeatedly comes loose.

How to prepare for your appointment

  • Bring an ID card or another form of identification.
  • Write down or think through your main questions and expectations regarding crowns or bridges.
  • Information about previous dental procedures, medications you are taking, and your general health will be helpful.

What to expect during your appointment

Consultation and diagnostics

We discuss your needs, assess the condition of your teeth, and take X-rays if necessary.

Treatment planning

An individual treatment plan is created, including suitable solutions and materials.

Tooth preparation

The damaged tooth is shaped for a crown, or adjacent teeth are prepared for a bridge.

Taking impressions

Precise impressions are taken and sent to the dental laboratory for fabrication of the crown or bridge.

Temporary crown/bridge placement

A temporary solution is placed during the waiting period.

Try-in and placement of the final crown/bridge

Once ready, the crown or bridge is tried in and permanently fixed.

Follow-up

A follow-up visit is scheduled to ensure proper fit and to provide care instructions.

Specialists providing this service

On the life long mission

UUS: pakume äriklientidele tööandja ravikindlustust

Payment & Appointment Info

Payment methods

Meliva Health Insurance covers this service under Dental Care coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.

Referral

You can book this service as a self-paying patient without a doctor’s referral.

Clinics offering this service

  • Al Mare Dental Clinic

    Al Mare Dental Clinic

    Address: Vabaõhumuuseumi tee 2a, 13522 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726611105

  • Open Järve Dental Clinic

    Järve Dental Clinic

    Address: Lelle 24, 11318 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726776800

  • Open Kaarli Dental Clinic

    Kaarli Dental Clinic

    Address: Toompuiestee 4, 10142 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726199119

  • Open Keila Dental Office

    Keila Dental Office

    Address: Keskväljak 3, 76608 Keila

    Phone number: +372 6591 070

  • Kuressaare Dental Clinic

    Kuressaare Dental Clinic

    Address: Tallinna 16, 93819 Kuressaare

    Phone number: +37251944828

  • KW Dental Clinic

    KW Dental Clinic

    Address: Pärnu mnt 22, 10141 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726619500

  • Open Maakri Dental Clinic

    Maakri Dental Clinic

    Address: Liivalaia 45, 10145 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726003300

  • Open Pärnu Dental Clinic

    Pärnu Dental Clinic

    Address: Väike-Kuke 4b, 80018 Pärnu

    Phone number: +3724459299

  • Open Ülemiste Dental Clinic

    Ülemiste Dental Clinic

    Address: Lõõtsa 8a, 11415 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726199150

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is an artificial covering placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed dental prosthesis that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent teeth or implants.

Do crowns and bridges look natural?

Yes, crowns and bridges are individually made to match the shape, colour, and position of your natural teeth for a realistic result.

How long do crowns and bridges last?

With proper care and regular check-ups, crowns and bridges can last 10–15 years or longer.

Is the placement of crowns and bridges painful?

The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia, making it painless. Some temporary sensitivity may occur afterwards.

How should crowns and bridges be cared for?

They should be cared for like natural teeth: regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential.

Are crowns and bridges suitable for everyone?

Suitability is assessed individually by a dentist based on the condition of your teeth, gums, and overall health.

What is the difference between a crown and a veneer?

A crown covers the entire tooth, while a veneer covers only the front surface. Crowns are used for more extensive damage.

Can implants replace bridges?

Yes, dental implants are an alternative to bridges, especially when adjacent teeth are healthy and should not be ground down.

Can crowns and bridges change colour?

Porcelain crowns and bridges are colour-stable and do not change shade over time.