What to Know Before Getting Crowns, Bridges or Veneers — A Patient’s Guide

If your dentist has talked to you about fixing damaged, broken, or uneven teeth, you may have heard of dental crowns in Nanaimo, bridges, or veneers. These treatments are common in dental care, but many patients feel unsure before starting.

This guide explains everything in simple words so you feel confident and ready before treatment.

Why Dentists Recommend Tooth Restorations

Teeth can become weak over time. Cavities, cracks, old fillings, or injuries can damage teeth. When this happens, your dentist in Nanaimo may suggest a restoration to protect your tooth and help you chew properly again.

Dental restorations help to:

• Protect weak teeth

• Improve chewing and speaking.

• Prevent nearby teeth from shifting.

• Improve your smile

• Support long-term oral health.

Understanding Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are caps that cover the entire tooth. They are used when a tooth is too weak for a filling but still healthy enough to save.

A dentist near you may suggest dental crowns if:

• A tooth has a large cavity.

• A tooth is cracked or broken.

• You had a root cana.l

• A tooth needs extra strength.

Crowns are shaped to look like your natural tooth. Once placed, they help restore strength and function.

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is used when one or more teeth are missing. It “bridges” the space between healthy teeth.

A bridge works by:

• Using nearby teeth as support

• Holding a false tooth in the space

• Restoring normal chewing

Bridges help prevent other teeth from shifting. They also help keep your bite balanced.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are thin shells placed on the front of teeth. They are mainly used to improve how teeth look.

Veneers may help with:

• Chipped teeth

• Stains that do not whiten

• Small gaps

• Slightly uneven teeth

Your dentist will check your tooth enamel before recommending veneers.

Crowns, Bridges, or Veneers: Comparison

Treatment	Main Purpose	Covers Whole Tooth?	Used for Missing Teeth?
Dental Crowns	Strength and protection of teeth	Yes	No
Bridges	Replace missing teeth	Partially	Yes
Veneers	Improve appearance	No	No

This table helps patients quickly understand which option may fit their needs.

What to Know Before You Decide

Before starting treatment, your dentist will examine your mouth and may take X-rays. This helps plan the safest option for your teeth.

Important things to think about:

• Your oral health condition

• How long do you want the result to last?

• Your budget and insurance

• Daily oral care habits

Every mouth is different. A good dentist will explain all options clearly.

Does the Treatment Hurt?

Most patients worry about pain. The good news is that dental treatments are done with local anesthesia.

You may feel:

• Mild pressure during treatment

• Light soreness afterward

• Short-term sensitivity

Most patients return to normal eating within a few days.

How Long Do Crowns, Bridges, and Veneers Last?

With proper care, these treatments can last many years.

To help them last longer

• Brush at least twice a day.

• Floss daily

• Avoid chewing ice or hard candy.

• Visit your dentist for regular checkups.

Healthy habits make a big difference.

Why Choosing the Right Dental Clinic Matters?

A good dental clinic cares about your comfort and your safety. Experienced dentists use trusted materials and careful planning to keep your smile healthy and protected.

A trusted clinic will

• Explain treatment in simple words.

• Answer your questions

• Use modern dental tools.

• Focus on long-term oral health.

Good communication builds trust and better results.

Key Takeaway

Crowns, bridges and veneers are not just cosmetic treatments. They protect your teeth and support daily life, like eating and speaking.

If you feel unsure, ask questions. A professional dentist is there to help you choose the optimal option for your smile and health.

Fix Damaged Teeth Using Tooth Restorations!

At Uplands Dental Clinic, we help fix damaged teeth using tooth restorations that protect your oral health. Our dentist checks each tooth and explains your options clearly. We offer dental crowns, fillings, and other treatments to restore strength and function. Our team focuses on comfort, safety and long-lasting results for every patient. Call Uplands Dental Clinic today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dental crowns the same as fillings?

No. Fillings repair small areas of decay, while dental crowns cover the entire tooth. Crowns are used when a tooth needs more strength and support.

What is the difference between a crown, a veneer, and a dental bridge?

A dental crown covers the whole tooth to make it strong again. A veneer only covers the front of a tooth to improve how it looks. A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by using nearby teeth for support. Your dentist will help you choose the right option.

Will getting a crown, veneer, or bridge hurt?

Most patients feel very little pain. Your dentist uses local anesthesia to numb the area during treatment. You may feel mild soreness after the visit, but it usually goes away in a short time.