When a tooth is severely damaged or missing altogether, it can cause problems with eating and speaking on a day-to-day basis and will affect your smile. Dental crowns and bridges near you are two common types of restorations, but they each have their own separate purpose. A crown is placed over an existing tooth to restore its shape and cover it, whereas a bridge fills the open space between two supporting teeth where a tooth is missing.

Understanding how these treatments differ can help you have a clearer conversation about your options and what may be suitable for your dental needs.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made cover that fits over an existing tooth. It helps restore the tooth’s shape, size, and function while covering and protecting a tooth that has been damaged, weakened, worn down, or affected by decay. A crown can also be used when a tooth has a large filling and needs additional support.

When Might You Need a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth next to each other. It is held in place by the nearby teeth or other suitable supports.

A bridge may be considered when:

  • One or more teeth are missing.
  • A gap affects chewing or speaking.
  • The surrounding teeth are suitable for support.
  • A fixed tooth replacement is being considered.

Unlike a crown, a bridge does not simply cover one existing tooth. Its purpose is to fill a space created by missing teeth.

What Should You Consider Before Choosing?

The right option is based on more than appearance. A dental clinic near you can examine the tooth or missing area and consider factors such as:

  • Whether the tooth is still present
  • How much healthy tooth structure remains
  • The condition of nearby teeth
  • The location of the missing tooth
  • Your chewing needs
  • The overall condition of your teeth and gums

A crown may be suitable for an existing tooth that needs more coverage, while a bridge may be considered when a missing tooth needs to be replaced.

What Happens During Crown Treatment?

Before placing a crown, the tooth is examined and prepared for the restoration. Some of the tooth may need to be reshaped so the crown can fit properly.

The process may include:

  • Examining the tooth
  • Preparing the tooth for the crown
  • Taking measurements or impressions
  • Creating the custom restoration
  • Checking the fit and appearance
  • Placing the finished crown

The number of appointments can vary depending on the tooth and the treatment required.

What Happens During Bridge Treatment?

A dental clinic in Millwoods can assess the missing area and the teeth that may support a bridge. The supporting teeth may require preparation before the bridge is fitted.

The treatment may involve:

  • Examining the missing space
  • Checking the supporting teeth
  • Preparing the supporting teeth when needed
  • Taking measurements for the bridge
  • Checking its fit
  • Securing the completed restoration

The exact design depends on the location of the missing tooth or teeth and the condition of the surrounding structures.

How Can You Care for a Crown or Bridge?

Good daily oral care helps keep the teeth and gums around a restoration clean. Areas around dental work can collect plaque and food if they are not cleaned regularly.

Helpful habits include:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day.
  • Clean between your teeth every day.
  • Follow any specific cleaning instructions provided
  • Avoid using your teeth to open packages.
  • Attend regular dental examinations.
  • Report changes such as looseness, discomfort, or sensitivity.

A dental clinic can also guide you on caring for your specific restoration.

When Should You Have a Dental Assessment?

A damaged or missing tooth may need different types of treatment. A dental check-up at a dental clinic can help find the problem and explain which options may be right for you.

Consider booking an appointment if you notice:

  • A cracked or badly damaged tooth
  • A missing tooth
  • A visible gap between your teeth
  • Trouble chewing
  • A loose or damaged filling, crown, or other restoration
  • A change in how your teeth fit together

Seeing a dentist early can help you understand your treatment options and decide what is best for your smile.

Find the Right Restoration for Your Needs!

A damaged tooth and a missing tooth require different approaches, so understanding your options is an important part of planning treatment. A dental assessment can help you learn what may be suitable based on your individual dental needs.

Book an appointment with Millwoods Dental Choice to discuss your dental concerns, explore your crown or bridge options, and find a suitable approach for restoring your smile.

FAQs

Can a bridge replace more than one tooth?

Yes. A bridge can replace two or more missing teeth if the nearby teeth and gums are healthy enough to support it.

Does every damaged tooth need a crown?

No. Some damaged teeth can be fixed with a filling or another type of treatment. The right option depends on how much damage the tooth has.

Can a crown improve the look of a tooth?

Yes. A crown can make a damaged or worn tooth look better by improving its shape, size, and colour when it is suitable for you.

How do you know whether you need a crown or bridge?

The main factor is whether the tooth is still present and what condition it is in. A dental examination can help determine which restoration may be suitable.