Do You Need a Crown or a Bridge for Missing or Damaged Teeth?

At Junée F. Gardy DDS, PA in Naples, FL, we understand the importance of feeling confident about your oral health decisions. If you have a damaged or missing tooth, two of the most effective restorative options are crowns and bridges. While both types of dental restorations serve important roles in protecting and restoring teeth, they each have a unique set of benefits and characteristics that may make one or the other more appropriate to use in a given situation. 

Generally speaking, dental crowns are considered appropriate for protecting a damaged tooth or replacing a missing tooth by attachment to a dental implant, while bridges are typically reserved for patients who need to replace multiple, consecutive missing teeth or those who may not be eligible for implants. Here, you'll find additional information from dental restoration specialist Dr. Junée Gardy on differences between crowns and bridges. 

 

What is a dental crown used for? 

A dental crown is a custom-made cap or cover that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. Crowns are typically used to restore teeth that are cracked, severely decayed, worn down, or have undergone root canal therapy. By covering the visible portion of the tooth, a crown restores its strength, shape, and appearance while protecting it from further damage. Crowns are also placed on top of dental implants to replace individual missing teeth. 

 

Do crowns look like real teeth? 

Crowns are designed to match the natural color and contour of your surrounding teeth, allowing them to blend with your existing smile. At our office, Dr. Gardy uses advanced, natural-looking dental crown materials to ensure both durability and aesthetics, giving patients long-lasting results they can rely on and feel confident about. 

 

When is a dental bridge recommended? 

A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration that fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It is typically anchored in place using crowns on the healthy teeth next to the space, or by attaching to dental implants. Bridges are often recommended when a tooth is missing and when the patient's adjacent teeth are strong enough to support the restoration. 

 

What are the benefits of dental crowns and bridges? 

Both crowns and bridges offer a compelling range of functional and cosmetic benefits. Some of the reasons to get dental crowns or bridges include:  

• Restoring your ability to chew and speak properly 
• Maintaining proper bite alignment and preventing shifting teeth 
• Protecting weakened teeth from further damage 
• Enhancing the appearance of your smile 
• Providing a long-lasting, fixed solution that looks and feels natural 

 

How do I choose between a crown or dental bridge? 

The right treatment depends on several factors, including the condition of your teeth, the location of the damage or gap, and your overall dental goals. During an initial consultation and exam, Dr. Gardy conducts a thorough evaluation and discusses your options in detail, ensuring you can feel confident and informed throughout the process. Whether you need to repair a fractured tooth or replace a missing tooth, we are here to help restore your smile in a way that feels and functions as naturally as possible. 

 

Smile with comfort and confidence again with custom dental restorations in Naples, FL  

At Junée F. Gardy DDS, PA, we believe in providing dental solutions that support both your oral health and your self-confidence. Whether you need a crown for a damaged tooth or a bridge to replace multiple missing teeth, our suite of advanced technologies and materials can help deliver beautiful, lasting results. To learn more about your options for dental crowns and dental bridges in Naples, FL, contact our office today to schedule your personalized consultation with Dr. Junée Gardy.