When it comes to good oral health, there are occasions when we require more than regular cleanings and fillings. At times, our teeth may get damaged or decayed, which means that some form of more serious dental work will be necessary. Two of the most common ways to repair damaged teeth are dental crowns and bridges. However, many people may not fully understand the difference between these two options and which one is the best fit for their oral health needs. If you are looking for dental crowns and bridges near you then before that understanding the differences between dental crowns and bridges and help you decide which one is the best fit for your oral health.
Let’s discuss dental crowns and bridges in more detail. Both crowns and bridges are used to replace damaged or missing teeth, but they differ in their functions.
Dental Crowns:
A dental crown is a dental device that covers a damaged tooth to regain its shape, size, strength, and appearance. A crowning is recommended for a tooth that is severely decayed or cracked, or it has been treated with a root canal. A crown may also be placed on a discolored or misshapen tooth for cosmetic purposes.
Going to the dentist for a dental crown means you will usually have two visits. The first visit involves the dentist getting the tooth ready: decayed and damaged tooth coverings will be removed, and the tooth would be shaped to accommodate the crown. Next, an impression of the tooth will be taken to construct a crown, customized to fit snugly over the tooth that was prepared. During this waiting period, a temporary crown is placed on the tooth to protect it. The second visit involves removing the temporary crown and cementing the permanent crown into place.
Dental Bridges:
A dental bridge replaces one or two teeth that have gone missing. It comprises two or more crowns on either side of a gap with a false tooth (the pontic) between them. The crowns are placed over the adjacent of the gap teeth to hold the pontic in its position, thus filling the gap and restoring the ability and appearance lost with the missing teeth.
Getting a dental bridge is quite similar to getting a crown. Adjacent teeth will be prepared for crown placement with the removal of some enamel. Impressions will then be taken to formulate a custom-made bridge that will fit perfectly in your mouth. In the second visit, the bridge will then be placed and cemented in place.
Difference Between A Crown And A Bridge:
The number of teeth involved is a major difference between a crown and a bridge. A crown is only one tooth, while a bridge is for multiple teeth. Moreover, the crown is usually used to repair a damaged tooth, whereas the bridge is used in the case of missing teeth.
Another difference is in the preparation process. In crown preparation, a tooth is prepared to fit a crown, while in a bridge, adjacent teeth are prepared to hold the bridge in place.
Another factor is maintenance. Crowns and bridges both need good oral hygiene to last longer. However, because bridges are an amalgamation of more than one tooth, it may require a little more effort to clean and maintain compared to a single crown.
Should I Get A Crown Or A Bridge?
Now that we know more about dental crowns and bridges in SE Calgary, we can find out which one is best for your oral health needs. This choice depends on your dental condition, budget, and personal choice.
A crown would be perfectly recommended for damaged or decayed teeth that should be saved at any cost; however, an important aspect where it helps bring strength and performance to the front with a bright appearance. Now, if some or all teeth are missing then dental bridges shall do the wonders for you. It not only covers the gap, but it stops other teeth in the mouth from shifting out.
Another factor of consideration is price. Generally speaking, dental bridges are more costly than crowns because they’re more extensive procedures and require one or more crowns. Yet, if you have dental insurance, it’ll cover part of the cost with both options.
Restoring Smiles, Enhancing Lives
In conclusion, dental crowns and bridges both represent excellent ways of restoring the integrity of damaged or lost teeth. What would determine a preference between having a crown and having a bridge depends upon several considerations that range from your dental health status to the finances and individualistic preferences of every person. So, get consulting with a dentist in SE Calgary.
At Nexus Dental Centre, we offer expert advice and customized solutions to help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. With proper care and maintenance, both crowns and bridges can offer long-lasting results. Contact Nexus Dental Centre today to schedule your consultation and explore the best options for restoring your smile!