Differences Between Dental Crowns and Bridges Explained

Differences Between Dental Crowns and Bridges Explained

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differences between dental crowns and bridges explained

Have you ever thought about what makes dental crowns and bridges in Prince Albert different? While they both restore teeth, they both serve different purposes. Crown dental treatment is offered to those who have weak teeth, while bridges fill the gaps. By knowing how each of them works, you can choose which one is best for your smile.

What are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown would act as a form of cap placed on a damaged or decayed tooth. This dental procedure helps to enhance the colour and shape of teeth.

When You Might Need a Crown:

  • To repair a broken or cracked tooth.
  • To protect a weak tooth from further damage.
  • To cover a dental implant or a large filling.
  • To enhance the look of discoloured or misshapen teeth.

Benefits of Tooth Repair Crowns:

  • Strengthen weakened teeth.
  • Restore natural chewing function.
  • Improve smile aesthetics.
  • Long-lasting and durable protection.

Crowns are usually recommended where a tooth is not healthy enough for a filling but is healthy enough to save.

What are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a prosthetic designed to fill in for lost teeth. A dental bridge connects an artificial tooth to the neighbouring teeth or implants.

How Bridges Work:

  • The dentist works on the teeth beside the gap in your mouth.
  • A prosthetic tooth that’s made especially for you is placed in the gap.
  • The neighbouring teeth receive crowns to support the structure of the bridge.

Benefits of Cosmetic Dental Bridges:

  • Restore chewing and speaking ability.
  • Maintain facial shape and prevent jaw changes.
  • Prevent nearby teeth from shifting.
  • Blend naturally with your smile.

Bridges are the perfect solution for anyone who has a missing tooth or teeth that are still surrounded by healthy teeth.

Dental Crowns vs. Bridges – Key Differences

Simply‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ stated, they differ in the following ways:

  • Function: Crowns are used to fix the damage of one particular tooth, while bridges are used to replace missing teeth.
  • Location: A crown is made to fit over a single tooth; thus, a bridge lies over the gap where a tooth is missing.
  • Help: A crown can be put on a natural tooth or an implant, while a bridge needs the support of the nearby healthy teeth.
  • Life-span: Both can be kept for a long time if good care is taken; however, the bridges may require a bit more maintenance because of the several attachments.

Whichever it is, both procedures can make your smile look perfect ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌again.

How to Care for Your Crown or Bridge

It’s‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ easy to maintain the cleanliness and strength of your dental restorations if you follow the routine:

  • Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss gently around your dental crowns and bridges.
  • Do not eat hard foods or chew on ice.
  • See‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ your dentist in Prince Albert at a minimum of two times annually for your routine check-ups and a professional cleaning.

This is the greatest maintenance that extends the life of your dental crown or bridge and restores your vibrant smile.

Why Choose One Crown or Bridge?

The‍‌‍‍‌ decision to use either a crown or a bridge depends largely on the kind of dental problem you have:

  • If a tooth is broken or its structure is weakened, the proper way would be to put a crown on the tooth to cover ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌it.
  • Where the absence of one or more teeth is the case, then a bridge can be the best solution for you.

Indeed, your dentist will evaluate your oral condition, radiographs, and occlusion before giving you the perfect solution for your ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌case.

Reclaim the Strength and Beauty of Your Smile!

Not sure if a dental crown or bridge is right for your smile? At Prairie Pines Dental, we offer personalized, gentle care. Our knowledgeable team will direct you toward the best answer for a strong, healthy and confident smile. Book your consultation today!

FAQs 

How long do crowns and bridges last?

With proper care, both can last 10–15 years or more.

Are crowns and bridges noticeable?

No. These are customized for the specific shade of your teeth for a natural appearance.

Can I eat normally after getting a bridge or crown?

Yes, once adjusted, you can enjoy most foods comfortably.

How soon can I return to normal activities?

Normally, you get them back in 24 hours; there’s little recovery time needed.