When you need a dental crown or bridge, your dentist can perform the procedure and your smile will look much better afterward. Although they are both different, they’re many times spoken about with one another since their procedures are identical. Below you’ll find short explanations of each of them.
Dental Crowns
Crowns are caps shaped like teeth that are used for covering over all of a tooth’s surface when a tooth is misshapen or damaged. They’re made from various materials depending on your dentist. They’re often the best option when you have a damaged tooth and it can’t be easily restored using a filling or bonding.
Dental Bridges
Bridges are prosthetic but natural looking teeth that are held in gaps when you have at least one of your teeth missing. The bridge is bonded by the crowns placed on the teeth that are on either side of the false tooth. Bridges can be used for replacing 1-3 missing teeth.
What are Crowns Used for?
- Crowns will be put on teeth in the following situations:
- Congenitally misshapen teeth
- Damage from trauma
- Failed filling
- Severe discoloration
- Tooth decay
- Wear due to excessive clenching and grinding
When is a Dental Bridge Needed?
A bridge is used for replacing missing teeth. If you have a missing tooth and you don’t replace it, your other teeth might become misaligned. This can lead to more damage. When your teeth aren’t properly aligned, it can impair the appearance of your smile, the clarity of your speech, and whether or not you’re able to chew food properly. Crooked teeth can also be hard for you to clean, which means you’ll have a higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
If you aren’t sure which choice is the one for you, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist. They’ll give you the advice you need to make an informed decision about which one to choose.