Dental crowns and dental bridges both are used to repair and improve the function and appearance of teeth, but they help to gain different purposes and are used in many different situations.
A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged tooth. Dentists use it to restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance.
A dental bridge, on the other hand, is used to replace one or more missing teeth. As a result, It fills the space where the teeth are missing and is put in place to the natural teeth or implants around the space.
Dental Crowns
Dentists use a dental crown, or dental cap, as a fixed prosthetic device to cover and protect damaged or weak teeth. Experts specially design it to match the size, shape, and colour of the natural tooth it replaces.
When Would I Choose Dental Crowns?
- Dentists fix cracked, decayed, or damaged teeth by covering them to protect and stop more damage.
- Teeth that have met with crucial fractures or breaks can be supported and protected with crowns, preventing further damage.
- After undergoing root canal treatment, a tooth may become brittle and prone to fractures. Dentist will place a crown to strengthen and protect the tooth
- To provide an appearance boost by hiding discoloured or misshapen teeth.
Advantages of Dental Crowns
- Reduces tooth pain and sensitivity.
- It improves your bite function, allowing you to bite and chew normally.
- It improves your appearance and self-confidence.
- Saves your tooth by repairing the damage.
- It’s long-lasting. With proper care, a crown can last for 15 years or more.
- Ease maintenance. Once the crown fits, you care for it like a natural tooth.
What is a Dental Bridge?
- Dentists use a tooth-colored dental bridge to replace missing teeth. A dental bridge can effectively replace a partial denture or take the place of a severely damaged tooth that cannot be restored. A bridge made up of artificial teeth joined with metal and supported by dental crowns.
- Before putting the bridge in place, the dentist will begin by examining your mouth for tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral issues. We address any problems before starting treatment. The dentist trims one or two healthy teeth on either side of the gap to ready the bridge. They take X-rays, impressions, and digital images of your mouth and teeth.
- A temporary bridge protects the trimmed teeth as you wait for the permanent ones. The dentist will take out the temporary bridge. Next, Your dentist places the permanent bridge into your mouth.
When Is a Dental Bridge Best?
- To smoothly “close” gaps between your teeth, whether they’re natural or the result of tooth loss.
- When you want to maintain proper dental order after tooth loss by preventing moving of remaining teeth from their locations.
- To get back and improve your bite strength and chewing function after tooth loss.
Advantages of Dental Bridges
- Replaces missing teeth
- Restore your bite and speech functions
- Restore your smile and self-confidence
- Preserves the position of the adjacent teeth
- Easy to maintain
- Long-lasting
Which Option Is Better for You?
Knowing which one is better (dental crowns or bridges) for your specific dental needs requires a detailed checkup by a dental professional. In general, both treatments are effective. But the better option for you will depend on your condition. A crown is best if you have a damaged tooth that you can save. And a dental bridge is maybe best if your tooth is missing or severely damaged and difficult to repair. Dentists evaluate the following factors to make the decision:
- Condition of the Teeth: Dental crowns may be the right choice if you have one or more damaged or weakened teeth that need restoration. However, if you have one or more missing teeth and the next tooth is healthy , a dental bridge may be suggested to restore the missing teeth and maintain the order of the remaining teeth.
- Oral Health: The overall health of your mouth, the condition of your gums and remaining teeth, is important. The dentist will check your oral health and inform you if the supporting teeth are strong and healthy enough to support a dental bridge.
- Longevity and Durability: Dentists design crowns and bridges to last and withstand daily use. But, how long it will work will be dependent on factors such as oral hygiene practices, and overall oral health. Dentist will look for these factors and suggest the option with the best long-lasting choice.
Visit OHM Dental for expert guidance on choosing between a crown and a bridge. Our dental experts will assess your specific dental needs, consider the pros and cons of each option, and suggest you with best recommendations focusing on your oral health goals and overall well-being.
