Dental crowns, also known as caps, are tooth-shaped coverings that are placed over a damaged, weakened, or decayed tooth to restore its strength, shape, and appearance. Crowns are typically made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal (such as gold or silver), or a combination of materials. They are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a durable and natural-looking solution for damaged or decayed teeth.
Fixed bridge is a dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth (pontics) to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. The artificial teeth are attached to crowns placed on the adjacent teeth, creating a bridge that spans the gap left by the missing teeth. Fixed bridges are custom-made to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, restoring your smile’s appearance and function.
| Crown | Fixed Bridge |
| Covers and protects a single damaged or weakened tooth from further decay or damage. | Replaces one or more missing teeth in a fixed position. |
| Used to restore the shape, strength, and appearance of a tooth. | Consists of artificial teeth (pontics) anchored to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants (abutments). |
| Placed over an existing tooth. | Restores chewing function and aesthetics by bridging the gap left by missing teeth. |
| Typically involves only one tooth. | Involves multiple teeth in the restoration process. |
Both crowns and fixed bridges are effective restorative dental treatments that can address a range of dental issues and improve the appearance and function of your smile. While crowns are ideal for strengthening and protecting individual damaged teeth, fixed bridges are designed to replace missing teeth and restore the aesthetics and alignment of your smile. To determine which option is right for you, it’s essential to consult with your dentist, who can evaluate your specific dental condition and recommend the most suitable treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether you require a crown to repair a damaged tooth or a fixed bridge to replace missing teeth, investing in restorative dental care can help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime.
