If you’re missing a tooth or several, you’ve probably already started looking into tooth replacement options — that might be how you found yourself here. Two standard procedures you might’ve come across already are dental crowns and bridges.
Crowns and bridges are both dental treatments for missing teeth, but they have some differences that make them the right fit for particular scenarios.
Dr. Thomas Hernandez of Heritage Dental in the greater Houston area can help you determine whether you need crowns or bridges. Start with this post explaining the differences between crowns and bridges, and
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown can serve two purposes. It can cover a chipped, broken, weak, or misshapen tooth to make it look stronger and enhance its aesthetic; crowns also serve as attachments for false teeth to close gaps in your teeth. Think of crowns as a “cap” for teeth that need some additional structure.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is essentially a fake tooth designed to close a gap by replacing a missing natural tooth. There are a few different types of bridges used in different scenarios:
- A traditional bridge sits between two natural teeth that have crowns on them. The crowns and abutment teeth (the two teeth on either side of the bridge) hold the bridge in place.
- A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, although you only need one natural tooth with a crown, rather than two.
- A Maryland bridge functions as a traditional bridge. However, instead of using dental crowns, a Maryland bridge uses metal or porcelain framework on the back of the two natural abutment teeth.
- Finally, an implant-supported bridge requires a dental implant to stay in place.
Which bridge you need depends on various factors, including the size and shape of your mouth, jaw structure, teeth patterns, the size of the gap, and more. Dr. Hernandez can tell you which type of bridge is right for you after a thorough dental exam.
Who should get dental crowns?
Crowns are an excellent choice for people who have broken or malformed teeth. Crowns also work well for weak teeth that need external support to avoid becoming chipped, cracked, or otherwise messed up.
Because dental crowns are necessary for three of the four types of bridges, most people who need dental bridges also need crowns.
Who should get dental bridges?
Anyone missing a tooth or multiple teeth should consider dental bridges — the procedure is safe, effective, and long-lasting, and it can instill lifelong confidence in people who feel self-conscious about their current smile.
Plus, dental bridges protect the vulnerable soft tissues of your gums and tooth root where your gap is.
If you’re missing a tooth and want that gap filled, visit Heritage Dental in Tomball, Texas. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hernandez by calling our Houston-area office at 281-206-0926 or by booking through our online scheduling tool.
