Do You Recognize the Differences Between a Crown and Bridge?

A crown is what you get when you are considered royalty, and a bridge is a structure that connects two pieces of land!

All kidding aside, in dentistry, a crown and bridge are two separate ideas. According to WebMD.com, the definition of a crown “is a tooth-shaped ‘cap’ that is placed over a tooth -- to cover the tooth to restore its shape and size, strength, and improve its appearance.” And a bridge “literally bridges the gap created by one or more missing teeth made up of two or more crowns.”

You might ask yourself why would I need one rather than the other? Our premiere dentist in Howell, Michigan at Dr. DiStefano & Associates is here to tell you reasons why your dentist may decide to treat you with a crown instead of a bridge, including:

• Protecting your weak tooth
• Restoring your broken tooth
• Covering your tooth after a root canal when there isn't a lot of tooth left
• Holding your bridge in place
• Covering your misshapen or discolored tooth
• Making an enhancement to your tooth’s appearance

However, a bridge would be recommended by your dentist if you have several teeth next to one another that are weak, need replacing, are discolored, gapped or any other related reason.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the procedure of getting a crown or bridge painful?

No, the procedure of getting a crown or bridge is not painful with the use of a local anesthetic. You may feel some discomfort or pressure in the process, but otherwise they are usually completely painless. After the procedure, your mouth will be sore but will heal with time.

How much does a crown or bridge cost?

The costs of crowns and bridges vary depending on the materials used to make a crown or bridge and how much your insurance policy will cover. 

How long will a crown or bridge last?

According to WebMD.com, “on average, dental crowns last between five and 15 years. The life span of a crown depends on the amount of "wear and tear" the crown is exposed to, how well you follow good oral hygiene practices, and your personal mouth-related habits.” 

As one of the premier dentists in Howell, Michigan, Dr. DiStefano has over 30 years’ experience caring for his patients’ health.  He strives to educate his patients and improve their lives through dental care and disease prevention. Call Doctor Gary DiStefano, D.D.S., your favorite dentist in Howell, Michigan today to schedule your 6-month appointment!  We’ll get you on your way to better health! 517-546-8983