How is a bridge different than a crown?

A bridge replaces a missing tooth or teeth, while a crown replaces the missing tooth structure of a single tooth. A fixed bridge is cemented in place. The teeth on either side of the space are prepared for crowns and the bridge consists of the crowns and false teeth (pontics) - which is one solid piece - but is made to look like individual teeth. Other ways of replacing missing teeth are removeable partial dentures and implants. The fixed bridge is more comfortable than the removeable and less time and money than an implant. Since the fixed bridge is held on by crowns, a well-done fixed bridge will last about as long as well-done crowns.

What are dental crowns?

Basically, dental crowns are a new outside covering for a tooth. Gold crowns are best for back teeth, but porcelain fused to metal crowns are more commonly done. For front teeth either porcelain and metal or all porcelain crowns are available.

When is a crown necessary?

The three main reasons for crowns are extensive decay, fractured teeth, or cosmetics. Fillings are more conservative, but they are not nearly as strong as crowns. If a filling would go beyond a certain size, for example, more than one-fourth of the tooth, a crown will last much longer and look a lot better. Many patients who have large, discolored fillings prefer the esthetics of nicely done porcelain crowns. Sometimes the size and shape of the teeth can be improved cosmetically with crowns - as well as closing spaces when they are present.

How long will a crown last?

According to statistics, the "average " crown will last just over eight years. Most dental insurance plans will pay to replace a crown after five years - so insurance companies plan for crowns to last about five years. There are so many factors involved in the wear and tear on a crown that it is impossible to predict longevity. Some of these factors include the bite, types of foods eaten, the patient's homecare, susceptibility to decay, regular professional preventive care, and technical abilities of the dentist and dental laboratory.