Dental Crowns and Dental BridgeS
Restore Damaged Teeth and Replace Missing Teeth
Restore Your Smile With Crowns and Bridges
Damaged or missing teeth can affect your ability to bite and chew comfortably and may change the appearance of your smile. Dental crowns and dental bridges are restorative treatments used for different concerns. A crown covers and protects an existing tooth, while a bridge can replace one or more missing teeth.
At Deer Lake Dental, our dentists assess the condition of your teeth, gums, bite, and surrounding tooth structure before recommending treatment. The goal is to restore function, protect remaining teeth when appropriate, and create a restoration that complements your natural smile.
Protect Weakened or Damaged Natural Teeth
Replace One or More Missing Teeth
Restore Comfortable Biting and Chewing Function
Improve the Appearance of Your Smile
Choosing Between a Dental Crown and Bridge
A dental crown covers the visible portion of an existing tooth. Crowns may be recommended when a tooth has been significantly weakened, fractured, heavily restored, or treated with root canal therapy. The tooth is prepared so the crown can fit securely and restore its shape, strength, and function.
A dental bridge fills a space created by one or more missing teeth. Traditional bridges use neighbouring teeth for support, with replacement teeth positioned between them to restore the missing area. Your dentist will assess the location of the missing or damaged tooth and discuss whether a crown, bridge, dental implant, or another restorative option is appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about dental crowns, bridges, and restoring damaged or missing teeth.
How do I know if I need a dental crown?
A crown may be recommended when a tooth is too damaged or weakened for a filling alone to provide appropriate restoration. This can include teeth with large fillings, fractures, significant decay, or previous root canal treatment. Your dentist will examine the remaining tooth structure and determine whether a crown or another treatment is appropriate.
How long do dental crowns and bridges last?
The lifespan of a crown or bridge varies depending on oral hygiene, bite forces, tooth grinding, diet, the supporting teeth, and other individual factors. These restorations may eventually require repair or replacement. Regular dental examinations allow your dentist to monitor the restoration and identify changes involving the supporting teeth or surrounding gums.
What is the difference between a dental bridge and an implant?
A traditional dental bridge replaces a missing tooth by receiving support from neighbouring teeth. A dental implant replaces the missing tooth root and can support a restoration independently. Each approach has different requirements, benefits, and treatment considerations, so your dentist can help determine which option is appropriate for your mouth.
Does getting a dental crown hurt?
Local anesthesia can be used when preparing a tooth for a crown to help keep the area comfortable during treatment. Some temporary sensitivity or tenderness may occur afterward. Your experience can depend on the condition of the tooth and the treatment required, and your dentist will explain what to expect during your appointment.
Can a cavity develop underneath a dental crown?
Yes. Although the crown itself cannot develop tooth decay, the natural tooth underneath it can still be affected, particularly around the edge where the crown meets the tooth. Daily brushing, cleaning between teeth, and regular dental examinations are important for protecting the natural tooth and maintaining the surrounding gums.
