When teeth are damaged, decayed, or missing, it doesn’t just affect your smile—it impacts chewing, speaking, and even overall oral health. Two of the most common restorative treatments your dentist may recommend are dental crowns and dental bridges. These time-tested solutions help protect weakened teeth, replace missing ones, and restore function while keeping your smile natural-looking.
When Are Crowns Needed?
Crowns may be recommended if you have:
- A tooth with a large filling or cavity
- A cracked, broken, or worn-down tooth
- A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment
- A misshapen or severely discoloured tooth
- A dental implant needing coverage
Materials Used for Crowns
- Porcelain/ceramic: Natural look, ideal for front teeth
- Metal alloys (gold or silver): Very durable, used for back teeth
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): Strong and natural-looking
- Zirconia: Highly durable and aesthetically pleasing
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It literally “bridges” the gap by anchoring artificial teeth (called pontics) to neighbouring natural teeth or implants (abutments).
Types of Dental Bridges
- Traditional Bridge: Anchored by crowns on teeth adjacent to the gap.
- Cantilever Bridge: Anchored to only one adjacent tooth.
- Maryland Bonded Bridge: Uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: Anchored by implants instead of natural teeth.
The Procedure: What to Expect
For Crowns:
- Preparation: The tooth is shaped and an impression is taken.
- Temporary Crown: Placed while the permanent crown is made.
- Final Placement: The permanent crown is fitted, adjusted, and cemented.
For Bridges:
- Preparation: The abutment teeth are shaped for crowns.
- Impressions: Taken to create the custom bridge.
- Temporary Bridge: Worn until the permanent one is ready.
- Final Placement: The bridge is checked for fit and cemented in place.
Benefits of Crowns and Bridges
- Restore ability to chew and speak properly
- Protect weakened or damaged teeth
- Improve smile aesthetics
- Maintain facial structure by preventing teeth from shifting
- Provide long-lasting solutions (with proper care)
Lifespan and Maintenance
Crowns and bridges can last 10–15 years or longer with proper care.
- Brush and floss daily (special floss threaders help with bridges).
- Avoid chewing hard foods (like ice or hard candies).
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
If you’re dealing with damaged or missing teeth, don’t wait until it affects your confidence and oral health further. Schedule a consultation with Progressive Era Dental today to explore whether crowns or bridges are right for you and take the first step toward a healthier, stronger smile.