Tooth damage and loss affect millions of Americans each year. For residents seeking crowns and bridges in Middleburg, FL understanding these two popular restoration options can help guide your dental decisions. 

Call 904-589-6129 for an appointment at Mate & Huaman Dentistry. Both treatments restore function and appearance, but they serve different dental needs.

The Basics of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over damaged teeth. Think of a crown as a strong outer shell that covers and protects what remains of your natural tooth.

Good candidates for crowns include people with:

  • Teeth weakened by large cavities
  • Cracked or broken teeth
  • Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy
  • Severely worn-down teeth
  • Oddly shaped or discolored teeth that affect smile appearance

Modern crowns are custom-made using various materials including porcelain, zirconia, metal alloys, or combinations. Each material offers different benefits in terms of strength, appearance, and cost.

How Dental Bridges Work

Unlike crowns, bridges specifically address tooth loss. A bridge spans the space where teeth are missing by connecting artificial teeth to the natural teeth on either side.

Bridges are ideal for people who:

  • Have one to three consecutive missing teeth
  • Want a fixed (non-removable) tooth replacement
  • Need to prevent remaining teeth from shifting
  • Want to restore proper chewing function
  • Wish to improve speech affected by tooth gaps

The artificial teeth in bridges (called pontics) look and function like natural teeth. The anchoring teeth (abutments) typically receive crowns to support the bridge structure.

Key Differences to Consider

The main factors that determine which option suits your needs include:

  • Tooth Condition: Crowns preserve your natural tooth structure when the root and core remain healthy. Bridges replace teeth that are already missing or beyond saving.
  • Treatment Area: Crowns address single tooth problems. Bridges span gaps where one or more teeth are missing.
  • Bone Health: Crowns maintain natural tooth roots, which stimulate jawbone and prevent bone loss. Bridges don’t provide this stimulation where teeth are missing.
  • Longevity: Both restorations typically last 5-15 years with proper care, though individual results vary based on oral hygiene and habits.

The Treatment Journey

Both procedures usually require two office visits. First, your dentist prepares the affected teeth and takes impressions. You’ll receive temporary restorations while a dental lab crafts your permanent ones. At your second visit, your dentist will place and adjust your custom crown or bridge for proper fit and bite.

Daily Care for Long-Lasting Results

Taking care of crowns and bridges requires attention to detail:

  • Clean thoroughly along the gumline where the restoration meets your natural tooth
  • Use floss or interdental brushes to clean under and around bridges
  • Avoid chewing on extremely hard foods or objects
  • Schedule regular dental check-ups for professional cleaning and evaluation

Your Next Steps

Don’t let damaged or missing teeth hinder your quality of life. Modern crowns and bridges in Middleburg provide reliable, natural-looking solutions tailored to your specific dental needs.

Ready to explore your options? Contact Mate & Huaman Dentistry to schedule your personal consultation and discover which restoration will best restore your healthy smile. Our experienced team offers crowns and bridges in Middleburg, FL using the latest techniques and highest-quality materials.

Call us today at 904-589-6129 for an appointment. You can also schedule ​​online.