Let’s say you’ve got a tooth that’s been giving you trouble—maybe it’s cracked, decayed, or even missing altogether. You’ve been told you might need a crown… or maybe a bridge. But what’s the actual difference between the two? They sound kind of similar, and they both live in the realm of restorative dentistry. So how do you know which one is right for your situation?

Let’s clear up the confusion and help you feel confident about your next dental move.

First Things First: What’s a Crown?

Think of a dental crown like a protective helmet for a damaged or weak tooth. It completely covers the visible part of your tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength while also improving its appearance. Crowns are typically made from porcelain, ceramic, or a blend of materials that mimic the natural look and feel of teeth.

Crowns are often used when:

• A tooth is cracked or broken

• There’s a large cavity that can’t be fixed with a filling

• A tooth has undergone a root canal

• You want to cover a severely discolored or misshapen tooth

• You’re protecting a worn-down tooth from further damage

Once placed, crowns are durable and can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years—sometimes even longer with great care.

So What About a Bridge?

A dental bridge, on the other hand, is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It quite literally “bridges” the gap between healthy teeth. It’s made up of one or more prosthetic teeth (called pontics) that are anchored in place by crowns on the surrounding healthy teeth (called abutments).

You might need a bridge if:

• You’ve lost a tooth due to injury, decay, or extraction

• You want to restore function to your bite

• You’re concerned about shifting teeth or jaw misalignment

Bridges help restore chewing power and prevent nearby teeth from drifting out of place. They’re a practical and long-term fix for tooth loss when implants aren’t an immediate option.

Spot the Difference: Crowns vs. Bridges

Here’s a breakdown of how crowns and bridges differ in purpose and design:

• Crowns restore a single tooth that’s still in place

• Bridges replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent teeth

• Crowns can be used alone, while bridges are a system of connected crowns and artificial teeth

• Crowns can be used as part of a bridge (on the anchoring teeth), but not all crowns are part of a bridge

In short, if your tooth is damaged but still intact, you’re likely looking at a crown. If the tooth is missing entirely, a bridge may be your solution.

The Process: What to Expect for Each

Whether you’re getting a crown or a bridge, the process shares some similarities—but with some key differences.

Getting a Crown

• Your dentist will prep the damaged tooth by removing any decay and reshaping it to fit the crown.

• Impressions are taken to ensure the crown fits perfectly.

• A temporary crown is placed while your permanent one is created.

• A few weeks later, the permanent crown is bonded into place.

Getting a Bridge

• The teeth on either side of the missing tooth (the abutment teeth) are reshaped to fit crowns.

• Impressions are taken to build your custom bridge.

• A temporary bridge is placed while your permanent one is being made.

• Once ready, the final bridge is cemented into place.

Both procedures are usually done in two visits and can be completed comfortably with local anesthesia.

Benefits of Crowns and Bridges: Function Meets Aesthetics

Crowns and bridges don’t just restore your smile—they bring tangible quality-of-life improvements, too. Here’s what the research and professional associations say:

• American Dental Association (ADA) notes that crowns and bridges can help preserve the natural alignment of your jaw and bite.

• Improved Functionality: You’ll chew, speak, and smile with greater ease and comfort.

• Natural Appearance: Modern materials blend beautifully with natural teeth.

• Long-Lasting Results: With proper care, crowns and bridges can serve you well for over a decade.

Plus, they’re often more affordable and faster to complete than implants, especially for patients who want a timely solution.

Keeping Them in Great Shape: Your At-Home Guide

Maintaining crowns and bridges doesn’t require any over-the-top routines—just consistent, smart care:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

• Floss daily (using a floss threader for bridges)

• Avoid chewing hard candies, ice, or other tooth-breaking culprits

• Schedule regular dental checkups

Your dentist will keep an eye on the integrity of the crown or bridge and the health of the surrounding teeth.



If you're unsure whether you need a crown or a bridge, let the experts help. Call The Dental Boutique Westchase at 813-536-7766 to book your appointment and get a customized treatment plan that fits your smile and your lifestyle.