When dealing with dental issues, two of the most common solutions are dental crowns and dental bridges and often patients ask what are the difference. Though they serve similar purposes by restoring the structure and appearance of teeth, they are used in distinct situations and are quite different in terms of how they work. Having clear knowledge for the difference between a crown and a bridge can help you make informed decisions about your dental care. In this article, we’ll explore what crowns and bridges are, how they differ, and when each treatment is most suitable.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is essentially a protective cap that fits over a damaged or decayed tooth. It is placed to restore the tooth’s strength, shape, and appearance. Crowns are typically used when a tooth is so compromised that a filling is no longer a viable option but the tooth can still be preserved. The crown covers the tooth, offering protection and durability.
Why Might You Need a Crown?
Crowns are often recommended in the following situations:
- Severe Damage or Decay:
When a tooth is badly damaged or decayed and hard to be repaired with a filling, a crown can restore its structure and function.
- Post-Root Canal:
If you’ve undergone a root canal procedure, your tooth may become more brittle, and a crown can reinforce it, preventing it from breaking.
- Aesthetic Improvements:
Crowns can be used to enhance the look of a tooth that is misshapen or discolored, making your smile appear more uniform.
- Large Fillings:
If a tooth has a large filling and is at risk of breaking, a crown can provide the necessary support.
The Crown Procedure
Placing a crown usually involves two visits:
- Preparation Visit:
The dentist will reshape the tooth to make space for the crown, remove any decayed portions, and take impressions to ensure a custom fit. A temporary crown is often placed while a permanent one is created.
- Final Visit:
Once the permanent crown is being ready, it wil be placed over the prepared tooth and adjusted for a proper fit. The crown would be permanently bonded to the tooth.
Crowns are available in a range of materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, and metal, with porcelain being quite a popular choice due to its natural look.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is used to cover one or more missing teeth by bridging an artificial tooth (or teeth) to adjacent healthy teeth. The bridge is supported by crowns that are placed on the neighbouring teeth, effectively bridging the gap appeared by the missing tooth or teeth.
Why Would You Need a Bridge?
Bridges are good when you have missing teeth and healthy teeth on the side of the gap. Here are some situations where a dental bridge may be recommended:
- To Replace Missing Teeth:
A bridge fills in the gap left by missing teeth, making you to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.
- Prevent Teeth Shifting:
If a tooth is lost, the neighbouring teeth may shift out from the right place. A bridge can help prevent this by filling the space.
- Improve Appearance:
Bridges restore the aesthetic of your smile by closing the gaps by missing teeth.
How a Bridge Is Placed
Similar to crowns, the process of getting a dental bridge typically involves two visits:
- First Visit:
The dentist prepares the adjacent teeth by reshaping them to create room for the crowns that will anchor the bridge. Impressions are taken to create a customised bridge, and a temporary bridge is often used in the meantime.
- Second Visit:
The permanent bridge is fitted, adjusted, and securely bonded to the adjacent teeth, filling the gap and restoring the function of your teeth.
Dental bridges can be made from porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. Porcelain bridges are commonly used for their strength and natural appearance.
How Do Crowns and Bridges Differ?
Although both dental crowns and bridges restore teeth, they are used for different purposes and have distinct characteristics. Here are the key differences between the two:
1, Primary Purpose
- Crown: A crown is typically used to restore a single damaged or weakened tooth. It serves as a protective cover, ensuring the tooth remains functional.
- Bridge: A bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth, filling the gap with artificial teeth anchored to the adjacent healthy teeth.
2. Structure
- Crown: A crown is a single cap that covers an entire tooth.
- Bridge: A bridge consists of two side crowns on the next teeth with an artificial tooth (pontic) in between, effectively bridging the gap.
3. Treatment Area
- Crown: A crown is used on a single tooth, typically one that is decayed, fractured, or aesthetically unsatisfactory.
- Bridge: A bridge spans across a gap made by one or more missing teeth, supported by the healthy teeth on either side of the space.
4. Procedure
- Crown: A dental crown involves reshaping the damaged tooth and placing a cap over it.
- Bridge: The procedure for a bridge involves reshaping the adjacent teeth to support the crowns and creating a bridge to fill the space.
5. Cost and Materials
- Crown: Crowns tend to be less expensive than bridges because they only involve a single tooth. The material used (porcelain, ceramic, metal) will influence the cost.
- Bridge: Bridges tend to be more expensive than crowns due to the complexity of the procedure and the materials involved, as multiple teeth are being worked on.
6. Longevity
- Crown: Crowns typically last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, depending on the material used and how well you maintain your oral hygiene.
- Bridge: Bridges generally last 10 to 15 years as well, but their lifespan can be affected by the health of the supporting teeth.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Crowns and Bridges
Both crowns and bridges have their advantages and potential drawbacks. Here’s a quick overview:
Pros of Crowns:
- Restores the appearance and function of a damaged tooth.
- Protects weak teeth from further harm.
- Aesthetic benefits, especially with porcelain crowns that blend with natural teeth.
- Long-lasting and durable.
Cons of Crowns:
- Requires reshaping of the natural tooth, which may cause some discomfort.
- Can be costly, depending on the material chosen.
Pros of Bridges:
- Replaces missing teeth, restoring chewing and speaking ability.
- Prevents shifting of surrounding teeth.
- Offers a natural-looking solution to fill gaps.
Cons of Bridges:
- The adjacent healthy teeth must be altered, which can cause some sensitivity.
- More expensive than crowns.
- May put extra pressure on the surrounding teeth, which could lead to future complications.
Crowns and Bridges, Which One Is Right for You?
Making a choice between a dental crown or a dental bridge depends on your specific dental needs. A crown is usually recommended for a single tooth that is damaged or decayed but can still be saved. A bridge, on the other hand, is ideal when you have missing teeth and need a solution that fills the gap.
To determine the better option for your oral health, a consultation with your dentist is essential. They will consider your overall oral health, the condition of your surrounding teeth, and your personal preferences when recommending a treatment plan.
Effective Methods for Restoring Your Smile
Both dental crowns and bridges are highly effective methods for restoring your smile, but they serve different functions. A crown helps restore a damaged tooth to its original state, while a bridge fills the gap left by missing teeth. With the right treatment, both options can provide lasting solutions to maintain a healthy, functional, and attractive smile. Be sure to discuss your needs with your dentist to find the option that works best for you. If you are in Surrey Hills, Box Hill, Balwyn, Camberwell, Mont Albert, or Burwood, and looking for a dentist near Surrey Hills, consult us for professional advice and high-quality dental care.