If you are struggling with missing teeth, there are many treatments available that can effectively restore both the health and function of your smile.
To discover your most optimal path to healthy teeth, we recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Patrick Stuckey who will perform a thorough assessment of your oral health and recommend the most appropriate replacement options.
In the meantime, keep reading this short blog post to find out the differences between two very popular tooth replacement procedures: dental crowns and dental bridges.
Dental Crowns vs. Dental Bridges
A dental crown is a cap designed to restore a single tooth after sustaining damages like:
- Cracks
- Chips
- Tooth infections or large cavities
- Fractures, etc.
Dental crowns can either be used to cover a natural tooth that has a healthy root, but damaged body, or they can be used to complete a dental implant restoration procedure.
Bridges are similar to crowns, except they can replace multiple missing teeth with the same prosthetic. Usually, a bridge will contain a dental cap on each side connected to 1-2 artificial teeth in the middle.
They are used in cases where the patient may be dealing with missing teeth, and when their adjacent teeth can support dental crowns to hold the artificial tooth in place.
How Are They Made?
Both crowns and bridges are made in a similar way. The dentist will take an impression or scan of your mouth and then send it to the lab where the prosthetic is made to suit your specific size, tooth shape, and color.
Moreover, you have multiple choices in terms of materials, from ceramic to metals, and even zirconium. Dr. Stuckey can help you make the best choices in terms of crown or bridge materials, depending on your needs and budget.
How Long Do They Last?
Both crowns and bridges can last anywhere between 10-15 years, depending on their material as well as patient maintenance.
While all crowns are designed to withstand the daily pressure of chewing, some habits may wear them down faster. For instance, if you have a habit of chewing on hard objects, you may chip or even crack your crown or bridge faster.
Here are some tips that can help you prolong the lifespan of your smile restoration:
- Practice good oral care by brushing your teeth 2 times a day and flossing daily
- Eat plenty of fresh fruits and veggies to promote saliva production
- Stop smoking
- Cut down on sugars and excessive snacking
- Use fluoride products (toothpaste, mouthwash)
- Get routine dental cleanings, etc.
Interested in Crowns or Bridges? We Can Help
If you are dealing with damaged and missing teeth, Ruston dentist Dr. Stuckey can help you discover whether dental crowns or bridges are the right solutions for you.
Book an appointment at Patrick Stuckey, DDS by calling (318) 255-8648 today.
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