For many dental novices, the terms “crown” and “bridge” can sound confusing, especially when trying to understand which option is best for restoring a smile. Both crowns and bridges are common dental solutions used to repair or replace damaged teeth, but they serve different purposes. At BlueJay Family Dental, Dr. Steven Fidone helps patients in Council Bluffs, IA, make informed decisions about their oral health. This blog will break down the basics of crowns and bridges, giving you a clearer understanding of their roles in dental care.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is essentially a cap that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are custom-made to fit over a tooth and can be made from various materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these. The purpose of a crown is to provide support for a weakened tooth, protect it from further damage, and improve its function and appearance.

Crowns are typically used in the following situations:

To protect a tooth that has been weakened by decay or a large filling.
To restore a tooth that has been broken or severely worn down.
To cover and support a tooth after a root canal treatment.
To improve the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth.
To cover a dental implant.

At BlueJay Family Dental, Dr. Fidone uses crowns to not only strengthen teeth but also to enhance the appearance of a patient’s smile.

What is a Dental Bridge?

While a crown is used to cover an individual tooth, a dental bridge is a solution for replacing one or more missing teeth. A bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are anchored in place by crowns on the adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. These anchor teeth are called abutment teeth, and they support the bridge, filling the gap left by the missing tooth or teeth.

Dental bridges are an effective way to restore both the function and aesthetics of a smile. By filling in the gaps, bridges help patients chew properly, speak more clearly, and prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of position.

Dr. Fidone often recommends bridges for patients at BlueJay Family Dental who have lost teeth due to decay, injury, or other issues.

The Key Differences Between Crowns and Bridges

While both crowns and bridges are common dental restorations, their purposes and applications differ. Here’s a closer look at the key distinctions:

1. Purpose

Crown: A crown is designed to cover and protect a damaged or decayed tooth, restoring its strength and appearance.
Bridge: A bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth, filling the gap and restoring the function of the mouth.

2. Application

Crown: Crowns are used on individual teeth. They cap a tooth that has been weakened by decay, fracture, or other damage.
Bridge: A bridge spans a gap created by missing teeth, using crowns on adjacent teeth to support the replacement tooth or teeth.

3. Number of Teeth Involved

Crown: A crown is used for a single tooth at a time, covering and protecting it.
Bridge: A bridge can replace one or more missing teeth and involves both the gap and the neighboring teeth, which serve as anchors.

4. Cost

Crown: The cost of a crown will depend on the material used and the complexity of the procedure. Because crowns are typically used for individual teeth, they are usually less expensive than a bridge.
Bridge: A bridge tends to be more costly than a crown since it replaces multiple teeth and involves several components (crowns and artificial teeth). However, it can be a more affordable solution compared to individual dental implants for each missing tooth.

When Should You Consider a Crown?

Crowns are an ideal solution for restoring a tooth that has been significantly damaged or weakened. If you have a tooth that is cracked, chipped, or has a large cavity that cannot be fixed with a filling, a crown may be the best option. Additionally, crowns are frequently used after root canal treatments to provide protection and restore functionality to the treated tooth.

At BlueJay Family Dental, Dr. Fidone may recommend a crown if:

You have a tooth that has undergone a root canal.
Your tooth is severely decayed and a filling won’t be enough.
You have a cracked or broken tooth.
You want to improve the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth.

When Should You Consider a Bridge?

Bridges are typically recommended for patients who have one or more missing teeth. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth can shift into the empty space, which can lead to bite issues, increased wear on remaining teeth, and even jaw problems. A bridge helps prevent these complications by filling the gap and keeping your remaining teeth in their proper positions.

Dr. Fidone may suggest a dental bridge if:

You are missing one or more teeth and want a long-lasting, non-removable solution.
You want to prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of alignment.
You prefer a more affordable option than multiple dental implants.
You want to restore your ability to chew and speak properly.

The Process of Getting a Crown or Bridge

Both crowns and bridges require multiple visits to complete, but the process is straightforward and minimally invasive.

Initial Consultation and Assessment: During your first visit, Dr. Fidone will assess your oral health and determine whether a crown or bridge is the best solution for your needs.
Tooth Preparation: If you are getting a crown, the damaged tooth will be shaped to accommodate the crown. For a bridge, the adjacent teeth may need to be prepared for crowns that will support the bridge.
Impression: Once the teeth are prepared, an impression is taken to create a custom-fitted crown or bridge. This ensures the restoration fits perfectly with your bite and surrounding teeth.
Temporary Restoration: While your permanent crown or bridge is being made, a temporary restoration may be placed to protect the prepared teeth.
Permanent Placement: Once your custom crown or bridge is ready, it will be permanently cemented into place, restoring the function and appearance of your teeth.

Choosing the Right Solution for You

Whether you need a crown or a bridge depends on the specific condition of your teeth and your long-term dental health goals. Dr. Fidone at BlueJay Family Dental will guide you through the decision-making process, helping you understand the benefits and limitations of each option. Both crowns and bridges are durable, long-lasting solutions that can restore your smile and improve your oral health.

Restoring Your Smile with Crowns and Bridges

Crowns and bridges play an essential role in modern dentistry, offering effective solutions for damaged and missing teeth. At BlueJay Family Dental, Dr. Steven Fidone provides patients in Council Bluffs, IA, with expert guidance on choosing the right treatment option for their needs. Whether you need a crown to protect a weakened tooth or a bridge to replace missing teeth, you can trust that your dental health is in good hands.

Sources:

Christensen, G. J. (2003). Why You Need a Crown After a Root Canal. Journal of the American Dental Association.
Shillingburg, H. T., & Hobo, S. (2012). Fundamentals of Fixed Prosthodontics. Quintessence Publishing.
Pjetursson, B. E., & Tan, K. (2008). A Systematic Review of the Survival and Complication Rates of Dental Bridges. Clinical Oral Implants Research.

The Difference Between a Crown and a Bridge: Basics for the Dental Novice