Chipped, worn or missing teeth can knock your confidence more than you’d expect, and it’s completely understandable to want a straightforward fix. Two of the most common options dentists talk about are crowns and bridges, and while the names sometimes get used almost interchangeably, they actually solve slightly different problems.
What is a dental crown?
A crown is essentially a custom-made cap that fits over an existing tooth, protecting it and restoring its shape. Dentists typically recommend a crown when a tooth is cracked, heavily worn, weakened after root canal treatment, or holding a large filling that’s no longer doing its job. To fit one, your dentist shapes the tooth slightly and takes an impression so the crown can be crafted to match the size, shape and shade of your surrounding teeth.
What is a dental bridge?
A bridge, on the other hand, is designed to replace one or more missing teeth entirely. It works by anchoring an artificial tooth to the natural teeth (or implants) on either side of the gap, effectively bridging the space. There are a few different styles: traditional bridges anchored to neighbouring teeth, implant-supported bridges that don’t rely on natural teeth for support, and Maryland bridges, which use a discreet framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth.
So which one is right for you?
As a general rule of thumb, if the natural tooth is still present and can be restored, a crown is usually the way to go. If a tooth is missing altogether, or too damaged to save, a bridge tends to be the more suitable option. Every mouth is different though, and factors like the health of neighbouring teeth, your bite, and your longer-term oral health goals all play a part in the decision.
Materials matter too
Crowns can be made from a few different materials (porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys) each with its own balance of appearance and durability. Your dentist can talk you through which material suits your particular tooth and situation, since a front tooth and a back molar often call for different considerations.
Getting a professional opinion
Because crowns and bridges are both longer-term investments in your smile, it’s worth having a proper conversation with your dentist before deciding. They’ll assess the health of the tooth or teeth in question and may also discuss alternatives such as tooth-coloured fillings if a less involved option is appropriate.
Explore your options
If you’re dealing with a damaged or missing tooth and aren’t sure which way to go, our team can walk you through the options for dental crowns and bridges and what each would mean for you. Book a consultation and we’ll set out the plan and the costs before anything is booked in. Feel better about making a decision.
