What Is the Difference Between a Dental Crown and a Bridge?

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Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a dental crown and a bridge? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Yourdentist in Foley, AL, can go over it with you. But, if you don’t want to wait, here is the explanation you are looking for.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A crown is a tooth-shaped dental cap. It’s used as a tooth restoration option. The cap completely covers (caps) your tooth or dental implant.

What Is a Dental Crown Used For?

Crowns restore broken, cracked, decayed, weak, or worn-down teeth. Dental crowns are also frequently used as part of the root canal or dental implant process.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A bridge is an oral restoration appliance that remains fixed in your mouth.

What Is a Dental Bridge Used For?

Dental bridges in Foley, AL, are used to replace one or several of your missing teeth. It does this by joining an artificial tooth to one of your remaining teeth or implants. These are used to bridge the gap between two of your healthy teeth.

Bridges are made up of two or several dental crowns for the teeth that are on either side of the gap left by your missing teeth.

How Long Do Crowns and Bridges Last?

Well, it depends. An implant-supported bridge is extremely durable. And they will generally last at least 10 years. But only if you care for your teeth properly. However, if you have a bridge that only uses a single tooth or metal framework, that type of bridge only has a life expectancy between five and seven years.

It’s a little different for dental crowns. Many crowns can last a lifetime. However, some will crack or need to be replaced between the 10- and 30-year mark.

How Many Teeth Can You Have on a Bridge?

A dental bridge can fill the gap between a single tooth. Or it can be used to fill the gap between four or more teeth. However, the more teeth needed to replace your missing teeth, the more dental crowns you will need to support that bridge. And longer bridges tend to be less stable.

Looking for a Dentist in Foley, AL?

You are going to need a dentist if you want to get a dental bridge or crown. PleaseContact Sand Dollar Dental today. Don’t put off getting your mouth back to normal. We can help. So don’t delay, contact us today!

3 Important Functions of Dental Crowns

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Dental crowns are common. In fact, millions of people have them. They’re the color and shape of your natural teeth, and they hide flaws that may cause pain or embarrassment. Nobody will ever know you have a dental crown unless you tell them. They’ll just assume your bright, perfect smile came naturally, which is the ultimate goal of your dental professional. However, aside from looking beautiful, crowns serve several other important functions. Your dentist in Foley, AL, may recommend the placement of a dental crown for several reasons.

1. Dental Crowns Are Used to Stabilize Compromised Teeth

If your dentist discovers a tooth that is cracked, fractured, or otherwise compromised, their first effort will be to try to save it. As long as it’s not damaged beyond repair, they may be able to reinforce the tooth by placing a crown. A crown is a tooth-shaped shell that fits over your natural tooth like a sleeve. It can be dyed to match the surrounding teeth, so it’s completely unnoticeable. Its function is to strengthen and restore the tooth structure, so extraction isn’t necessary.

2. Dental Crowns Hide a Variety of Flaws

Teeth that have been worn down, stained, chipped, or misshapen can all be improved through the application of a dental crown. Crowns can also fix wide spaces or gaps between teeth, so your smile appears to be perfectly aligned.

3. Dental Crowns Prevent Reinfection of the Tooth Pulp

In the event you may require a root canal procedure, your dentist will cap the affected tooth with a crown after they clean, sanitize, and fill the root canals. This serves to seal the entry point into the pulp, and it prevents the tooth from becoming reinfected. It also stabilizes the structure and restores the function and appearance of the tooth.

If you’re interested in learning more about dental crowns in Foley, AL, we invite you to contact Sand Dollar Dental. Call today to speak with a friendly and knowledgeable staff member, and we’ll be happy to schedule a consultation. Sand Dollar Dental is owned and operated by husband-and-wife team, Kurt and Holly Reineck, who are both doctors of dentistry, and we look forward to treating your family like it’s our own.

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Can I Wear A Bridge While Waiting For My Implant?

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Losing a tooth can be a distressing experience, and it’s natural to want a solution that restores your smile as soon as possible. Dental implants in Foley, AL are an excellent option for replacing missing teeth, but the process can take several months to complete. A common question that arises during this waiting period is whether you can wear a dental bridge to fill the gap temporarily.

Using a Temporary Bridge During the Implant Process

A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a false tooth, called a pontic, to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. While waiting for your dental implant to heal, your dentist in Foley, AL might talk to you about wearing a temporary bridge to fill the gap and maintain your appearance.

In many cases, wearing a temporary bridge is possible, but it depends on the specific circumstances and the recommendations of your dentist. A removable partial denture, also known as a “flipper,” may be another viable option to consider. These temporary solutions can help you maintain your smile and speech while the implant process is underway.

Pros and Cons of Wearing a Bridge During the Implant Process

Wearing a temporary bridge or removable partial denture while waiting for your dental implant offers several benefits, including:

  • Improved appearance – Filling the gap in your smile can boost your confidence and maintain a more natural appearance.
  • Better functionality – A temporary solution can help with chewing and speaking, which can be affected by a missing tooth.

However, there are also potential drawbacks to consider:

  • Additional cost – A temporary bridge or partial denture may come with additional costs that may not be covered by dental insurance.
  • Potential complications – Depending on the location of the implant and the type of temporary restoration, there might be a risk of complications or damage to the healing implant site.

Wearing a bridge while waiting for your dental implant is a possibility, but it’s essential to discuss your options with your dentist. They will consider your individual circumstances and recommend the best course of action to ensure a successful and aesthetically pleasing result. Contact us for an appointment to discuss your dental implant options.