What Is the Difference Between a Dental Crown and Bridge?
At Buckingham Family Dental, we offer a range of restorative dentistry solutions, including dental crowns and bridges, to restore your smile’s health, function, and natural appearance. We use the latest technology, techniques, and materials to deliver high-quality restorations that are engineered to withstand the test of time. Here’s all you need to know about dental crowns and bridges to help you make informed decisions about your treatment options.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-fitted “cap” that fits snugly over a weak or damaged tooth, restoring its strength, size, shape, and function. The following are some of the reasons you may need a dental crown:
- To restore a tooth with decay too extensive for a standard filling
- To strengthen a tooth compromised by an existing large filling
- To hold together a cracked, fractured, or severely damaged tooth
- To preserve a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy
- To rebuild a tooth with severe wear due to grinding and clenching (bruxism)
- To transform a severely discolored, misshapen, oddly sized, or otherwise flawed tooth
We craft our aesthetic crowns from a high-quality material that closely matches the look and feel of your natural teeth, blending in seamlessly with your smile.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth, filling gaps in your smile. Your restoration consists of one or more artificial teeth known as pontics, anchored in place by crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap. Those neighboring teeth, called abutment teeth, are shaped to support your bridge.
Dental bridges offer a reliable, non-surgical option for tooth replacement. They renew your complete smile, prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting out of position, and help you chew and speak with more comfort and confidence. They also redistribute the forces of your bite, helping lower your risk of periodontal (gum) disease, uneven tooth wear and fracture, and even TMJ pain.
Dental Crown vs Bridge – Which One Is Right for You?
The restoration right for you will depend on your specific needs. In general, a crown is usually the answer for a weak, damaged, or compromised tooth that can still be saved. If, however, you have one or more missing teeth, a bridge can be the ideal solution to restore your smile.
It’s important to note that a traditional fixed bridge relies on healthy teeth on either side of the gap for support. If any of these neighboring teeth are weak, damaged, or otherwise compromised, a dental implant or implant-supported bridge may be a better option for you. Our experienced dentists will assess your smile, discuss your tooth restoration options, and recommend the most conservative solution for your long-term oral health and function.
Dental Crowns and Bridges Near Me in Garland, TX
If you would like to learn more about restoring your smile with a dental crown or bridge, contact Buckingham Family Dental to schedule a consultation. Our patient-centered team will personalize every step of your treatment to deliver aesthetic, long-lasting restorations that enhance your smile and your quality of life. We invite you to call 469-649-1017 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!