At Truxel Dental, we use both bridges and crowns to repair damaged or missing teeth that may need to be repaired or replaced. However, the choice between a crown and a bridge depends on several factors, such as which teeth are missing or damaged, how healthy the other teeth are, and the patient’s preference.

Dental Crowns

Often referred to as “dental caps,” dental crowns cover the entire visible part of a tooth above the gum line. Dental crowns are ideal for protecting damaged teeth from further harm and restoring a tooth that has decayed beyond the point of repair with a filling. A dental crown can also be used to improve the appearance of a tooth that is severely discolored or misshapen. 

Why Get a Dental Crown?

One of the most common reasons for getting a crown is restoring a tooth with decay and strengthening the tooth to prevent further damage. A crown can also be used to cover discolored or misshapen teeth, improve the appearance of your smile, or even hold a dental bridge in place. In addition to protecting and strengthening damaged teeth, dental crowns may also be used to support a fixed bridge that replaces missing teeth.

Dental crowns can be made from porcelain, metal alloys, or both. Porcelain crowns match the natural color of your teeth and are recommended for restoring front teeth. Metal alloy crowns may be appropriate if a crown is needed on one of your molars. These crowns are more durable than porcelain crowns but may not be as aesthetically pleasing.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth with artificial teeth and uses crowns on either side of the gap for support. The restoration can be made from metal, porcelain, or a combination of materials. The restoration is permanently cemented and can only be removed by a dentist. Dental bridges require the adjacent teeth to be prepared by the dentist to hold the bridge in place. To maintain your dental bridge, you must practice good oral hygiene and attend regular checkups with your dentist in Sacramento, CA.

How Do Dental Bridges Work?

A dental bridge is a fixed method of replacing missing teeth. It is supported by the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. These anchoring teeth are abutments and help stabilize the restoration for reliable function. The replacement tooth is called a pontic and it is designed and crafted to blend in seamlessly with your smile. The bridge is customized to perfectly fit each patient’s unique smile, ensuring that it is comfortable as it restores dental health.

Maintaining good oral hygiene habits is especially important when you have bridges and crowns since bacteria can build up along the gum line around these restorations. Get in touch with Truxel Dental at (916) 333-2700 or visit us at 3880 Truxel Rd Suite #600, Sacramento, CA 95834, for the best dental care.