Do You Need a Crown or Bridge? Here’s How to Decide

When deciding how to restore your smile and enhance dental function, it’s important to comprehend the choices available. Crowns and bridges are two of the most common restorative approaches when dealing with compromised or missing teeth.

We take the time to clearly explain your options, ensuring you feel confident in your treatment decision. Our team will guide you through the differences between a crown and bridge, when each option is used, and how to determine what is best for your smile.

What is a crown?

Think of a crown as a protective cap that goes over an existing tooth. Custom-made to resemble your natural tooth, it serves to restore teeth weakened by decay, damage, or a root canal.

You might need a crown if:

• Your tooth is badly decayed or broken.
• You’ve had a root canal and need to protect the tooth.
• You have a large filling that’s weakening the tooth.
• You want to improve the shape or look of a tooth.

What Is a Bridge?

A bridge is used when you’re missing one or more teeth. It fills the gap by attaching a false tooth to the surrounding teeth, which are fitted with crowns to hold the bridge in place.

You might need a bridge if:

• You’re missing a tooth and want a fixed solution (no dentures).
• You want to restore chewing and speech function.
• You want to stop your other teeth from shifting out of place.
• Your surrounding teeth are strong enough to support a crown and bridge.

How to Decide What’s Right for You

Everyone’s mouth is different, but here are a few things to consider when deciding between a crown and a bridge:

• What’s the issue?

If your tooth is still present but damaged, a crown could be the solution. If it’s missing completely, a bridge could be the way to go.

• What shape are your surrounding teeth in?

A bridge relies on strong teeth next to the gap. If those teeth aren’t up to it, your dentist may suggest a different option.

• What are your goals?

Are you more focused on function, appearance, or both? A crown and bridge can address both, but your dentist can tailor the plan to suit your needs.

• Are you after something fixed and long-term?

Both crowns and bridges are fixed solutions, which means they do not need to be removed for cleaning like dentures.

• Your overall oral health

Gum health, jawbone strength, and your bite all play a part in choosing the right treatment.

Why Choose Taree Dental Care?

We know that dental work can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. We’re here to make things simple and comfortable. Whether you require a crown or bridge to reinforce your bite, fillings to fix cracks and holes, or cosmetic work like veneers to enhance your smile, we will take the necessary time to comprehend your objectives, answer all of your enquiries, and advocate the best choice for your grin, not just now but for years to come.

Let’s Chat About Your Smile

If you suspect that a crown or bridge may be essential for one or more of your teeth, it’s best not to delay addressing it. Please allow us to carefully examine your mouth and extensively talk about all the possibilities. 

Give us a call today at (02) 6550 0960  to book an appointment where we can thoroughly assess your situation. Your smile deserves the right support, and we’re here to help you find it.