Crowns vs. Bridges: What’s the Difference

Around 120 million people in the U.S. are missing at least one tooth — and a large number of these people opt to undergo dental procedures to restore their smiles and maintain optimal oral health. Among the most common restorative dental treatments are dental crowns and dental bridges — with an estimated 15 million crowns and 3 million bridges placed annually in the United States alone. These vital dental solutions play a crucial role in protecting the integrity of a functioning mouth and preserving a bright, confident smile.

While both crowns and bridges serve to restore damaged or missing teeth, they are different in how they are placed and the benefits they offer. Understanding the distinctions between these two popular dental treatments can help you make informed decisions about your oral health care needs.

Read on to explore the key differences between crowns and bridges — and where to find the best comprehensive dentist in south San Jose for maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile.

What are the Differences Between Dental Bridges and Dental Crowns?

The primary difference between dental bridges and dental crowns is their application and the dental issues they address. Dental crowns are cap-like structures designed to cover and protect a single damaged or weakened tooth. A crown restores the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. They are typically used for teeth that have undergone root canal therapy, have large fillings, or are severely decayed or fractured.

On the other hand, dental bridges are prosthetic devices used to replace one or more missing teeth — bridging the gap between remaining natural teeth or dental implants. A bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth anchored by crowns on the adjacent teeth.

While crowns focus on preserving and strengthening individual teeth, bridges aim to restore the functionality and aesthetics of a smile by filling in gaps left by missing teeth. Both dental treatments play crucial roles in maintaining oral health, preventing further dental issues, and enhancing the overall appearance of a patient's smile.

Who Should Get a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges are an excellent solution for many individuals facing tooth loss, but they're particularly beneficial for certain groups of patients. Ideal candidates for dental bridges typically include those who have one or more missing teeth in a row, with healthy adjacent teeth to support the bridge.

Dental bridges are recommended for:

• Individuals who want to restore their ability to chew and speak properly
• Those seeking to maintain the shape of their face and prevent remaining teeth from shifting
• Patients looking for a cost-effective alternative to dental implants
• People who desire a relatively quick solution to missing teeth
• Individuals with good oral hygiene habits, as proper care is crucial for the longevity of the bridge

This restorative dentistry option is especially suitable for patients who want to avoid the more invasive procedure of dental implants or are not good candidates for implants due to insufficient bone density.

Who Should Get a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are versatile restorative dentistry solutions that can address a wide range of dental issues — making them suitable for many patients. Individuals who should consider getting a dental crown typically fall into one or more of the following categories:

• Those with a severely decayed tooth that cannot be adequately repaired with a filling
• Patients who have undergone root canal treatment
• Individuals with a cracked, chipped, or fractured tooth that requires reinforcement
• Those with a misshapen or severely discolored tooth that impacts their smile's appearance
• Patients who have large fillings and need additional support for the remaining tooth structure
• Individuals who require a dental bridge, as crowns are used to anchor the bridge in place
• Those with dental implants since crowns serve as the visible portion of the implant

Additionally, dental crowns may be recommended for patients who grind their teeth excessively, as they can provide added protection against wear and tear. When making recommendations, your dentist will consider factors such as the extent of tooth damage, and your overall oral health before recommending a dental crown.

Which One is Better: Dental Bridges or Dental Crowns?

Deciding between dental bridges and dental crowns ultimately depends on your dental needs and oral health situation. Neither option is necessarily better than the other, as they serve different purposes in dental restoration.

Dental crowns are ideal for preserving and strengthening individual damaged teeth, while bridges are designed to replace one or more missing teeth. The choice between the two often depends on the extent of tooth loss, the condition of surrounding teeth, and overall oral health. In some cases, both treatments may be used together, with crowns supporting a bridge.

Where to Find the Best Comprehensive Dentist in San Jose

Dental crowns and bridges both require precision, skill, and an understanding of both aesthetics and functionality. Because of this, choosing the right dentist is important for achieving the best long-term results.

At Ghadiri Comprehensive Dentistry, Dr. Amir Ghadiri and Dr. Ayeh Ghadiri lead a team of dental professionals dedicated to providing top-notch restorative dentistry, including expertly crafted dental crowns and bridges. With over 25 years of experience, Ghadiri Dentistry is established as one of the most trusted practices in the San Jose area for these specialized treatments. Their commitment to using advanced techniques and high-quality materials ensures that patients receive durable, natural-looking restorations that enhance both the appearance and function of their smiles.

Ready for a comprehensive assessment with the best dentist in San Jose to determine if a crown or bridge is right for you?