When it comes to restorative dentistry, crowns and bridges are two of the most common solutions for repairing damaged teeth and replacing missing ones. But what exactly are they, and how do they differ?
Dental crowns
A dental crown, sometimes referred to as a cap, is a custom-made covering that fits over a damaged, decayed or aesthetically displeasing tooth. Crowns are designed to restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength and appearance. Here’s how crowns are typically used:
- Protecting a weakened tooth: Crowns can protect a tooth that has been weakened by decay or a large filling, preventing it from breaking.
- Restoring a broken tooth: If a tooth is cracked or severely worn down, a crown can restore its function and appearance.
- Supporting a tooth with a large filling: When there isn’t much natural tooth structure left, a crown can support and cover the tooth.
- Covering dental implants: Crowns are used to cover dental implants, providing a natural-looking and functional replacement for missing teeth.
- Improving aesthetic appearance: Crowns can improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth.
Crowns are typically made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal or a combination of these, depending on the location of the tooth and the patient’s preferences.
Dental bridges
A dental bridge is a restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between two adjacent teeth. Bridges are made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap—these anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth—and a false tooth/teeth in between. The false teeth are known as pontics and can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain or a combination of these materials. Here’s how bridges are typically used:
- Replacing missing teeth: Bridges are ideal for filling the gap left by one or more missing teeth, restoring both function and appearance.
- Preventing teeth from shifting: When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth can shift into the empty space, leading to bite problems and potential jaw issues. Bridges help maintain the alignment of your teeth.
- Restoring your smile: Bridges can enhance the aesthetic appearance of your smile by filling in gaps.
- Maintaining facial structure: Missing teeth can lead to changes in facial shape. Bridges help maintain the natural shape of your face.
Key differences between crowns and bridges
While both crowns and bridges are used to restore teeth, they serve different purposes and are used in different scenarios:
- Purpose: Crowns are used to cover or restore a single damaged tooth, while bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between two adjacent teeth.
- Components: A crown involves only one tooth, whereas a bridge involves multiple teeth, including the abutment teeth and the pontic(s).
- Indications: Crowns are ideal for strengthening a weakened tooth or improving its appearance. Bridges are best for filling gaps left by missing teeth, preventing the remaining teeth from shifting out of place.
Crowns and bridges are key tools in restorative dentistry, each serving specific purposes to enhance and restore oral health. Understanding the differences between these two options can help you make informed decisions about your dental care.
If you think you might benefit from a crown or bridge, or if you have any questions about these dental restorations, don’t hesitate to consult your Fioritto dentist. Call today to schedule your next appointment.