When it comes to replacing missing teeth, crowns and bridges are two of the most popular dental treatment options. But what is the difference between the two? This blog by Paragon Dental will explore both crowns and bridges and their respective uses.
A dental crown is a cap that fits over the remaining part of your tooth after it has been damaged or decayed. The purpose of the crown is to restore your tooth’s shape, size, strength and appearance. It also helps protect your tooth from further damage.
Dental crowns are made from various materials including porcelain, metal alloys, ceramics or composite resin. Your dentist will select the material that best matches your unique smile and blend in with your other natural teeth.
Your Middletown dentist will examine your mouth and take x-rays to determine if you need a dental crown. They may recommend getting a dental crown if:
A dental bridge is often used when one or more teeth are missing in a row of teeth. A bridge consists of two abutment teeth (the teeth on either side of the gap) with a false tooth in between them — hence the term “bridge”. These abutment teeth are crowned which anchor and stabilize the bridge into place. The false tooth is matched in color and shape to your existing teeth so that it blends in naturally with your smile.
Dental bridges usually consist of two parts: a pontic (or artificial tooth) and two abutment crowns which hold it in place on either side of the gap created by missing teeth. And just like dental crowns, dental bridges can be made from several materials including metal alloys, porcelain fused to metal (PFM), ceramics, and composite resin—depending on what best suits your needs and budget.
If you have one or more missing teeth but have healthy neighboring natural teeth that can act as anchors for support, then a bridge could be an effective option for restoring your smile back to its former glory!
Dental crowns and bridges are both effective treatments for missing teeth but serve different purposes. Your dentist will work with you to determine which one is the best for your individual situation, so that you can get back to smiling confidently in no time!
If you live in Middletown, NJ and are looking for a reliable dental practice to help you restore your missing teeth, you’ll be pleased to know that Paragon Dental offers both crowns and bridges. We’re highly experienced and promise to make you feel comfortable throughout the entire procedure. Call (732) 630-0021 today to set up an appointment!
