Dental Crowns vs Dental Bridges
Cosmetic and restorative dentistry can do wonders for your smile. These days, dentists are able to replace teeth with incredibly realistic results, filling in gaps and leaving patients with happy smiles. Dental crowns and dental bridges are especially crucial for healthy smiles around the globe.
Dental crowns and dental bridges have their own advantages and specific uses. Dr. Bruce J. Wilderman has used them to restore smiles throughout Philadelphia and Doylestown, PA, and the greater Bucks County area. Let’s compare dental crowns and bridges so you understand why each is used.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A crown is a protective cap that fits over a tooth, providing reinforcement and strength. Dental crowns can be fabricated from a number of materials, including:
- Metal
- Composite resin
- Porcelain
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal
- Zirconia
- Ceramic
The main difference in these materials comes down to costs and durability. Metal crowns are generally cheaper yet quite durable, while the other materials are more lifelike. Composite resin is the least expensive, and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are a great inexpensive option that still look realistic.
When Are Dental Crowns Used?
So when might you need a crown? They are actually quite common, and may be used during a variety of procedures. For example, your dentist may recommend a crown when:
- Fixing severe tooth decay
- Adding strength to a tooth after a root canal
- Repairing a cracked or chipped tooth
In addition to the above uses, a dental crown can also be used to top a dental implant when replacing a single missing tooth.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a false tooth that is flanked by dental crowns. This small dental appliance is made from durable materials so patients are able to bite and chew normally. Like crowns, they help restore the full function of a person’s smile.
When Are Dental Bridges Used?
The primary purpose of dental bridges is to fill in gaps and replace missing teeth. They do this by attaching to existing teeth, essentially forming a bridge between these natural teeth with the false tooth (pontic). The crowns on either side of the false tooth are attached to the patient’s natural teeth beside the tooth gap. These capped teeth are referred to as abutment teeth.
Cost and Timeline Differences
The timeline and total cost of your treatment depends on several factors. Below, we will explore these in more detail.
Dental Crowns
Generally speaking, porcelain and zirconia are generally the most expensive crown materials, followed by metal, then porcelain-fused-to-metal. Composite resin is the least expensive option.
Dental crown procedures can take between one and two visits to complete, over two to four weeks. At Artistic Expressions Dentistry, we partner with a trusted dental lab whose technicians put care and time into their design and construction.
Dental Bridges
The cost of a dental bridge can vary based on the number of teeth to replace and the materials used. Metal bridges may be less expensive than tooth-colored bridges depending on the alloys and materials used.
Like crowns, dental bridges take at least two office visits to complete. Our partner lab uses the impressions of your teeth to create your restoration. They masterfully craft the bridge to match your smile.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you would like to learn more about dental bridges and dental crowns, feel free to reach out. Give Artistic Expressions Dentistry a call today at (215) 340-1199, or go online to schedule an appointment today.