What Are Dental Crowns and Bridges?

Dental crowns and bridges are restorative treatments that help restore the appearance and function of damaged or missing teeth.

What is Crown?

A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth. It is designed to restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance.

Why Would You Need a Dental Crown?

  • To cover a large filling and protect the remaining tooth structure.
  • To restore a broken or cracked tooth.
  • To protect a weak tooth from breaking.
  • For cosmetic reasons, to cover a discoloured or misshapen tooth.
  • To hold a dental bridge in place.
  • After root canal treatment to protect the treated tooth.

What is Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap with a false tooth anchored by crowns on the adjacent teeth.

Why Would You Need a Dental Bridge?

  • To replace missing teeth and restore chewing ability.
  • To prevent teeth from shifting into the gap left by a missing tooth.
  • To improve the appearance of your smile.
  • To maintain bite alignment and reduce stress on remaining teeth.

Benefits of Crowns and Bridges

  • Restores function: Allows you to chew and speak properly.
  • Improves appearance: Provides a natural, aesthetic look.
  • Prevents further damage: Helps protect damaged teeth from breaking or decay.

Frequently Asked Questions

A crown covers and protects a damaged tooth, while a bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a false tooth between two crowns placed on healthy teeth.

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With proper care and good oral hygiene, crowns and bridges can last 10–15 years or even longer. Regular dental check-ups help extend their lifespan.

No, modern crowns and bridges are made to match your natural teeth in color and shape, giving a seamless and natural-looking smile.

The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, so you shouldn't feel pain. Some mild sensitivity or discomfort after the treatment is normal and temporary.

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Brush and floss daily, avoid chewing hard objects like ice, and visit your dentist regularly. Special flossing tools can help clean under and around bridges.