If you are looking to replace a missing tooth, you are likely to be presented with two options: a dental crown or a dental bridge. Both are great for different reasons, but which is right for you? Well, that depends on your particular situation. Understanding the many different dental procedures available to you can help you choose the best option. Still, keeping your teeth healthy always starts with a visit to your dental office. Let’s run through the differences between the dental crown and the dental bridge.
WHAT ARE DENTAL CROWNS?
If you have ever had a major cavity or experienced the pain of breaking a tooth, you're likely familiar with dental crowns. These can be resin, ceramic, porcelain, or metal caps placed on top of damaged teeth in order to protect, cover, and restore its natural appearance.
DENTAL CROWN APPLICATIONS
Your dentist may recommend a crown placement after a deep filling or root canal. A tooth that has developed a deep cavity can benefit from a crown placement. After all, a crown helps keep bacteria out of your tooth.
DENTAL CROWN BENEFITS
There are several benefits associated with dental crowns. Some of the most notable of these advantages include:
Preventing tooth fracture
Preventing further tooth decay
Restoring a beautiful smile
Easier daily hygiene
WHAT IS A DENTAL BRIDGE?
When teeth repair procedures can no longer help, your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction. Badly damaged or infected teeth may need to be pulled out in order to protect nearby teeth and maintain your overall dental health.
DENTAL BRIDGE APPLICATIONS
While a tooth extraction isn't the ideal option for most patients, it can be an optimal choice in dire situations. Keep in mind that the resulting gap in your smile isn't permanent. At least, it doesn't have to be. Dental bridges can hide missing teeth. Unlike implants, dental bridges attach to pre-existing teeth. Essentially, a dental bridge is a false or an artificial tooth that affixes to your natural teeth. The procedure involves creating a false tooth to replace your extracted tooth. It is then adhered to two crowns that fit over the two nearest teeth. In this way, a dental bridge procedure often relies on the use of dental crowns.
DENTAL BRIDGE BENEFITS
A person's smile can influence the way that others perceive them. To make a great first impression, you'll want to show off a confident and healthy smile. But if you're missing a few teeth, you may feel self-conscious about your appearance. The primary benefit of a dental bridge is to help you regain your confidence and enjoy a beautiful smile. Instead of covering up the gaps in your teeth, you can show the world a powerfully bright and full smile!
DENTAL CROWNS OR BRIDGES: WHICH IS RIGHT FOR ME?
The choice between a dental crown or a bridge is typically an easy one. Dental crowns are designed to help cover damaged or broken teeth. This helps prevent recurrent infection and further decay. Alternatively, a dental bridge is made to fill gaps in your smile. If you've had a tooth extraction, a bridge can hide the missing tooth. That's because a bridge is essentially a false tooth (or teeth) that adhere to nearby teeth. The right option for you depends on your current dental health. If you have a damaged tooth that's primarily intact and infection-free, a dental crown may be the right choice. But if you need a tooth extraction, a dental bridge could fill the gap left behind by your removed tooth. While you could also choose a dental implant, a bridge may be a more affordable and less painful option.
REACH OUT TO DENTAL EXPERTS IN PRINCE GEORGE
There are many types of dental services, and each is designed to tackle a specific issue. A dental crown protects damaged teeth from decay and infection. But a dental bridge is better suited to those with missing teeth. The right service for you depends on the current condition of your oral health, as well as your prior dental history. If you are in Prince George, a visit to your local dental clinic can help you learn more about which procedures might be right for you. If you're ready to embrace a healthy, bright, and confident smile, contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Richard Wilczek's office.