Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

New Patients Are Welcome!

Dental Crowns & Bridges Missouri City

The Different Types of Crowns & Bridges and Their Uses

Crowns and bridges are two different types of dental restorations that are used to improve the appearance and function of a patient’s smile. Both crowns and bridges help restore lost tooth structure, correct cosmetic issues and provide support for remaining teeth when needed. However, they have different functions and uses in everyday dentistry. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between crowns and bridges and how each one is used in dentistry.

Your dentist may recommend either a crown or bridge depending on your individual situation, so it is important to understand the difference between these two treatments. Crowns are typically used to cover damaged or decayed teeth, while bridges replace missing teeth with artificial replacements that are held in place by crowns attached to the adjacent healthy teeth. Both treatments restore the structure and appearance of your smile, but each type has its own unique benefits and uses.

What is a Crown?

A dental crown is an artificial restoration that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gum line. A crown is often used to restore weakened or damaged teeth, correct cosmetic issues such as discoloration, and provide support for bridges when needed. It can also be used to protect a tooth that has had root canal treatment and cannot effectively hold a filling on its own. Crowns are also commonly used to restore dental implants.

Types of Crowns

There are several different types of crowns available to meet the needs of each patient. These include porcelain fused to metal, all-metal, and all-ceramic. Porcelain fused with metal crowns is the most common type used in dentistry as they provide strength and durability without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. All-metal crowns, made from gold or other alloys, are often used for back teeth where aesthetics are less important than strength and durability. Finally, all-ceramic crowns provide a more natural look and blend in with your existing teeth for a seamless restoration that looks and functions like a natural tooth.

Advantages of Crowns

Crowns offer many advantages when it comes to restoring damaged or decayed teeth. They can be used to:

-Protect a tooth that has had root canal treatment

-Support a dental bridge

-Cover a misshapen or discolored tooth

-Improve the strength and function of a tooth

What is a Bridge?

A dental bridge is an artificial restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. Bridges are often used to close gaps in your smile caused by missing teeth, restore chewing and speaking function, and improve the overall appearance of your smile. Unlike crowns, which only cover the visible portion of a tooth, bridges actually replace the entire tooth structure, including the roots.

Types of Bridges

The type of bridge your dentist recommends will depend on the location of your missing teeth and the overall condition of your jawbone and gums. The most common types of bridges used in dentistry are traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported. Each type has its own unique benefits and uses.

Advantages of Bridges

Bridges offer many advantages when it comes to replacing missing teeth. They can be used to:

-Close gaps in your smile caused by one or more lost teeth

-Restore chewing and speaking function

-Prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of place

-Improve the overall appearance of your smile

Conclusion

Crowns and bridges are two different types of dental restorations that offer their own unique benefits and uses. If you are considering either treatment, be sure to discuss your options with your dentist to find the best solution for your individual needs.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between a crown and a bridge?

A dental crown is an artificial restoration that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gum line. A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth with artificial replacements that are held in place by crowns attached to the adjacent healthy teeth.

2. What are the different types of crowns available?

The different types of crowns available include porcelain fused to metal, all-metal, and all-ceramic.

Your dentist will be able to help you choose the best type for your individual needs.

3. Are bridges an effective way to replace missing teeth?

Yes, bridges are an effective way to replace one or more missing teeth and restore chewing and speaking functions. They can also improve the overall appearance of your smile.