What’s the Difference Between a Crown and a Bridge?

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Crowns and bridges have a tendency to be confused, largely because they’re both used in restorative dentistry. Learning the difference can help you make the right decision about your long-term oral health.

Crowns vs. Bridges in Bradenton, FL

A crown can refer to either a whole or partial artificial tooth that strengthens or replaces a tooth without additional support. For example, a dentist may cement a crown if you have tooth decay that can’t be fixed with a filling.

A bridge in Bradenton, FL is an artificial tooth that’s supported with the help of a crown. Usually, when dentists refer to a bridge, it’s to a permanent artificial tooth with a crown on either side of the false tooth. A dentist will affix these crowns to the healthy teeth that surround the gap of a missing tooth. The artificial tooth can function only by the grace of the crowns and teeth on either side. (In some cases, a bridge will only need one crown for support.)

Which One Is Better?

It’s not necessarily a question of which one is better because they’re recommended for different reasons. A bridge is a good option if you have a missing tooth that can’t be replaced with a dental implant.

While a bridge is not as strong as an implant, it’s a permanent replacement that you won’t have to worry about regularly removing and cleaning. A crown is the best way to strengthen a mouth or a tooth if it’s an available option. For example, if you had a root canal or an implant procedure.

At Laser Dentistry Online, our dentists in Bradenton, FL can help you find the right option for you, so you can protect your teeth, gums, and jaw from the elements.