When a tooth is damage or missing, one of the first questions patients ask is how they can restore both function and appearance. In most cases, the choice comes down to two trusted treatments: crowns and bridges. However, while both play an important role in restoring oral health, they serve different purposes.
At Hopkins Family Dentistry, we’ve placed countless dental crowns and bridges over the years and have seen how the right treatment can make a lasting difference. To decide which option is right for you, it is important to understand how each one works and what sets them apart.
What are Dental Crowns and Bridges?
A crown works like a cap, covering and protecting a damaged tooth while restoring its shape and strength. A bridge, on the other hand, is use to replace one or more missing teeth by “bridging” the empty space. It is made up of an artificial tooth (or teeth), called a pontic, which is supported by crowns attached to the healthy teeth or implants on either side of the gap.
Both crowns and most dental bridges are fixed prosthetic devices, usually lasting 10-15 years or more. However, they can occasionally become loose or fall out. The best way to keep them secure and long-lasting is by maintaining good oral hygiene. This means brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing every day, and getting regular dental checkups.
What are the Benefits of Dental Bridges and Crowns?
Crowns and bridges not only restore the look of your smile but also play an important role in protecting your oral health and daily function. Here are some of their key benefits:
Dental Crowns
- Shields the tooth from further wear and damage
- Restores strength and durability for normal chewing and biting
- Maintains a natural appearance by matching the tooth’s shape, size, and color
Dental Bridges
- Replaces one or more missing teeth to improve chewing and speaking ability
- Supports the natural positioning of your teeth in the oral cavity
- Maintains facial symmetry and prevents drooping and sagging
What are the Differences Between Dental Crowns and Bridges?
The table below summarizes the key differences between dental crowns and dental bridges:
Which Option is Better for You?
The right treatment depends on the condition of your teeth:
- A crown is best for restoring a single tooth that is cracked, worn, or weakened.
- A bridge is suitable if you have one or more missing teeth and the surrounding teeth are strong enough to hold the restoration.
- In cases of severe decay or multiple damaged teeth, we may recommend combining both treatments for the best result.
What is the Process for a Crown and Bridge Dental Treatment?
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the entire process:
1: Examination: Our team of professionals will examine and assess your oral cavity to create a personalized treatment plan.
2: Preparation: The tooth is gently reshaped to remove any damage or fillings and to make space for the bridge or crown. For crowns, we prepare the affected tooth; for bridges, we prepare the adjacent teeth.
3: Impressions: An impression of the prepared teeth is taken using a mold or a digital scanner.
4: Temporary Restoration: A temporary crown or bridge is planted to protect the teeth until the final one is ready.
5: Placement: On your second visit, the temporary crown or bridge is taken out, and the permanent one is securely bonded using dental cement. At Hopkins Family Dentistry, same-day crowns are also available, allowing treatment to be completed in a single appointment if suitable.
How Do You Care for Dental Crowns and Bridges?
The lifespan of your crown or bridge largely depends on how well you care for it. Here are some tips:
- After your dental bridge or crown is fixed, wait for at least 30-60 minutes before eating or drinking.
- If you have a temporary crown, chew on the opposite side to avoid dislodging it.
- Avoid very hard or sticky foods and do not use your teeth to open parcels or bite your nails.
- Brush regularly with a soft-bristle toothbrush and rinse your mouth after meals.
- Floss daily to prevent plaque and food build-up. For bridges, use a floss threader or superfloss to clean underneath the artificial tooth.
Conclusion
Dental crowns and bridges are dependable ways to restore teeth that are weak, damaged, or missing. They bring back strength for chewing, support everyday function, and help your smile look natural again. With the right care, they can last for many years and feel just like your own teeth.
At Hopkins Family Dentistry, we use advanced technology and proven techniques to deliver restorations that are both comfortable and long-lasting. From same day crowns to custom bridges, our aim is to restore both the aesthetics and function of your teeth.
So, are you ready to take the next step? Connect with your trusted dentist in hopkins mn, today to schedule your appointment. You can call us at 952-935-2121 or visit our clinic at 1919 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343.
FAQs
Will dental crowns and bridges improve the overall appearance of my teeth?
Yes. Crowns and bridges restore tooth shape and structure, close gaps, and address issues like discoloration.
How many visits are required to place a dental crown or bridge?
Traditionally, the process takes two to three visits. However, our professionals will examine your condition, and if you are eligible for same day crowns, then it can be done in a single appointment without compromising precision.
What should I expect during recovery?
After your crown or bridge is permanently placed, it’s normal to experience mild sensitivity to hot or cold foods and slight gum tenderness. This usually eases within a few days. Most patients can eat, speak, and carry on with daily activities immediately.
Is the procedure for a crown or bridge painful?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort during tooth preparation. Local anesthesia is used, and any post-procedure sensitivity usually subsides within a few days.
Who is a suitable candidate for a crown or bridge?
Crowns are suitable for teeth that are cracked, worn, or weakened. Bridges are ideal if you are missing one or more teeth and the neighboring teeth are healthy enough to support the restoration.
