If you have missing or damaged teeth, you may be wondering which dental procedures are right for your specific needs. The short answer is that everybody is different, so it depends on your needs. Only a qualified dentist can accurately evaluate your oral health and determine what course of treatment is a good fit. At Dedicated Dental, we care about you, both as a person and a patient. That’s why we created this handy guide to explain some of the differences between dental bridges and dental crowns, and which one may be right for you.
The Differences Between Dental Bridges and Dental Crowns
A dental bridge is exactly what it sounds like, a bridge that spans a gap between teeth. A bridge fills the space left by missing teeth, using a man-made crown that is held in place by your natural teeth on either side. The reason this is so important is that your teeth tend to move over time, shifting into the space where there is a gap, and becoming misaligned. Imagine what happens on a tight bookshelf when you take a book out, they all shift in that direction. In order for a dental crown to help, it must have the support of healthy teeth on either side to anchor it into position.
A bridge is usually made up of a man-made filler tooth known as a pontic, held in place by two surrounding crowns which form an abutment. Once completed, the assembly is cemented permanently into place. Dental bridges are often a great way to fill in a large gap created by one or more missing teeth. They look natural and provide a solid foundation to help you chew and speak clearly.
A dental crown, on the other hand, is a man-made cap that fits over the top of your natural tooth, helping to strengthen and protect it from further damage. Both are fixed in place and not removable in the way that dentures are. Dental crowns can be used to replace a large filling, help prevent damage such as cracking to a weakened tooth, and even cover or hide a misshapen, discolored or worn-down tooth.
Crowns and bridges can be used in conjunction with one another. A crown, for instance, can also be used to protect a tooth that will become an anchor for a dental bridge. They can also be used alongside of dental implants and other techniques to restore or enhance your teeth.
At Dedicated Dental, we care about you, and your oral health. We are always happy to discuss your specific dental needs, and determine what course of treatment will best match your smile goals, lifestyle, and budget. To find out more about dental crowns, bridges or advanced cosmetic services, or to schedule an appointment, please call Dedicated Dental today at (702) 566-5509. You can also request your appointment online, right now!
