A dental bridge replaces missing teeth by connecting neighboring teeth, while a crown covers and protects a single damaged tooth.
TR;DL Dental bridge Vs. Dental crown
A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring them to adjacent healthy teeth. It consists of a false tooth (or pontic) supported by two dental crowns on either side.
A dental crown is a cap that is placed over an existing damaged or weakened tooth to protect it and improve its aesthetics. It covers the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a popular restorative option for replacing missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, that are held in place by crowns on the adjacent natural teeth.
Method
The procedure begins with preparing the neighboring teeth to receive the crowns. The dentist will remove a small amount of enamel to make room for the crown. Impressions of your teeth are then taken and sent to a dental lab where they will custom-make your bridge.
Once ready, the bridge is carefully fitted and adjusted before being permanently cemented into place. With proper care, a dental bridge can last many years and restore both function and aesthetics to your smile.
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a type of dental restoration that is used to cover and protect a damaged or decayed tooth. It is essentially a cap that is placed over the existing tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance.
Dental crowns are typically made from porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of materials. The choice of material depends on various factors such as the location of the tooth in the mouth, aesthetic considerations, and functional requirements.
Method
The process of getting a dental crown usually involves two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist will examine and prepare the affected tooth by removing any decayed or weakened areas.
An impression of your teeth will be taken to create a custom-made crown that fits perfectly over your tooth.
While you wait for your permanent crown to be fabricated at a dental laboratory (which can take about two weeks), you will wear a temporary crown to protect your prepared tooth.
Once your permanent crown is ready, you will return for another appointment where it will be cemented onto your prepared tooth using special bonding agents.
Dental bridge Vs. Dental crown – Key differences
| Aspect | Dental Bridge | Dental Crown |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Replaces missing teeth and restores bite | Covers and protects a damaged tooth |
| Function | Replaces multiple missing teeth | Covers a single damaged or decayed tooth |
| Structure | Consists of multiple crowns and pontics | Covers only the top portion of a tooth |
| Placement | Requires adjacent teeth for support | Covers an individual tooth's entire surface |
| Use of Abutment | Anchored by abutment teeth or implants | Covers an existing tooth stump |
| Support | Provides support for the bridge | Provides protection for a weakened tooth |
| Aesthetics | Restores both function and appearance | Enhances appearance and strength |
| Procedure Complexity | Can be more complex due to multiple components | Generally simpler as it's a single unit |
| Cost | Often more expensive than a single crown | Typically less expensive than a bridge |
| Replacement | Replaces missing teeth | Restores a single tooth |
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a surgical component that is used to replace missing teeth. It is an artificial tooth root made of titanium that is inserted into the jawbone. The purpose of a dental implant is to provide support and stability for the replacement tooth or bridge.
What is a dental veneer?
A dental veneer is a thin shell made of porcelain or composite resin that is placed on the front surface of a tooth. It is designed to improve the appearance and function of teeth by correcting various cosmetic issues. Veneers can be used to fix crooked, chipped, stained, or misshapen teeth.
Image Credits
Featured Image By – starline on Freepik
Image 1 By – brgfx on Freepik
Image 2 By – brgfx on Freepik
