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Durham Prosthodontics
Durham Prosthodontics

Durham Prosthodontics
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Crowns vs Bridges


Beautiful mature woman smiling.Losing adult teeth due to illness or injury is a common experience. If you are missing one or several teeth, various restorative dentistry options can help you regain your smile and dental function. Two popular solutions are crowns and bridges, each serving different purposes and offering distinct benefits. Understanding the differences between these two can help you make an informed decision about which option is right for you.

Dental Bridges


Dental bridges are designed to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. They connect prosthetic teeth to your natural teeth or dental implants, effectively "bridging" the empty space. Bridges can restore the look and function of your teeth, especially if you have lost multiple teeth on one side of your jaw or directly across from each other.

There are several types of bridges, tailored to different dental needs and locations of tooth loss. Traditional bridges involve cementing the ends of the bridge to the adjacent natural teeth or implants. These are permanent and provide a stable, durable solution. For situations where there are healthy teeth on only one side of the gap, a cantilever bridge, which is cemented on one side, might be used. There are also bridges specifically designed for the front teeth, ensuring a natural and aesthetically pleasing result.

Dental bridges can be either removable or permanent. Removable bridges offer flexibility and ease of cleaning, while permanent bridges provide a more secure and long-lasting solution.

Dental Crowns


Crowns, on the other hand, are not used to replace missing teeth but to cover and protect damaged ones. If you have a broken, chipped, weak, or cracked tooth, a crown can be an ideal solution. Crowns are typically made of porcelain overlaying a metal cap, which fits over the damaged tooth, providing strength and protection. Sometimes, crowns are made from composite materials, which are not as strong but may be used in less demanding situations.

Crowns can save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted. For example, if a tooth is severely weakened but still has enough structure to be preserved, a crown can restore its function and appearance. Crowns are also used to cover discolored teeth, providing a uniform and natural-looking smile.

Which Dental Restoration Do You Need?


The choice between crowns and bridges depends on your specific dental condition and needs. If you are dealing with missing teeth, bridges offer a solution to fill the gaps and restore both function and aesthetics. They are particularly useful when multiple teeth are missing in a row. On the other hand, if your teeth are damaged but not missing, crowns can protect and strengthen them, preventing further damage and improving your smile.

Our dentist will be able to assess your dental health and discuss the best restorative option for you. We will consider factors such as the location and number of missing or damaged teeth, the health of your remaining teeth, and your overall dental goals. By working closely with your dentist, you can choose the most effective treatment to restore your smile and maintain your oral health.

Crowns Vs Bridges - Let Us Help You Decide


Both crowns and bridges play vital roles in restorative dentistry. Understanding their differences and applications can help you make an informed decision, ensuring you receive the most appropriate and effective treatment for your dental needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation: (984) 312-7056.
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