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Difference Between Dental Crowns & Bridges

Dental crowns and bridges are both commonly used dental procedures that can help to restore and improve the function and appearance of your teeth. While they share some similarities, they are different in their purpose, structure, and application. Understanding the differences between dental crowns and bridges can help you make an informed decision about which treatment option is best for you.

1.Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are prosthetic dental devices that are used to cover and protect a damaged or weakened tooth. They are typically used in cases where a tooth has been broken, cracked, or severely decayed, and can no longer support a filling.

  • Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns can be made from different materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials. Each type of crown has its unique benefits, such as durability, aesthetic appeal, and resistance to wear and tear.

  • Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns can offer several benefits, including protecting a damaged tooth, improving the appearance of a tooth, and restoring its function of a tooth. Crowns can also help to prevent further damage to a tooth and can last for many years with proper care.

  • Procedure for Dental Crowns

The process for getting a dental crown typically involves two appointments. In the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the damaged tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to accommodate the crown. The dentist will then take an impression of the tooth and send it to a dental lab to create the crown. In the second appointment, the crown will be placed onto the prepared tooth and adjusted to fit comfortably.

2.Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are prosthetic dental devices that are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They are typically used in cases where there are gaps in the teeth caused by tooth loss and can help to restore the function and appearance of the teeth.

  • Types of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges can be made from different materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials. They can also be supported by dental implants or natural teeth. Each type of bridge has its unique benefits, such as stability, strength, and aesthetic appeal.

  • Benefits of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges can offer several benefits, including filling gaps caused by missing teeth, improving the appearance of the teeth, and restoring the ability to chew and speak properly. Bridges can also help to prevent further tooth loss and can last for many years with proper care.

  • Procedure for Dental Bridges

The process for getting a dental bridge typically involves two appointments. In the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the teeth on either side of the gap by removing a portion of the enamel to accommodate the bridge. The dentist will then take an impression of the teeth and send it to a dental lab to create the bridge. In the second appointment, the bridge will be placed onto the prepared teeth and adjusted to fit comfortably.

Conclusion

Dental crowns and bridges are both effective ways to restore and improve the function and appearance of your teeth. Crowns are used to cover and protect damaged or weakened teeth, while bridges are used to replace missing teeth. Understanding the differences between the two procedures can help you make an informed decision about which treatment option is best for you. If you have any questions or concerns about dental crowns or bridges, consult with your dentist to discuss your options.

FAQs

The cost difference between a dental crown and a bridge varies depending on the number of teeth being treated, the materials used, and the location of the dental practice, but generally, bridges are more expensive than individual dental crowns.

The procedure for a crown or bridge typically takes 2-3 visits to the dentist, with each visit lasting around 1-2 hours.

Crowns are generally more durable than bridges because they are standalone restorations that cover and protect individual damaged teeth, while bridges rely on neighboring teeth for support and may be more susceptible to damage or wear over time. However, both crowns and bridges can last a long time with proper care and maintenance.