According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, over 15 million dental patients have had crowns and bridges installed. Though they are similar dental treatments, crowns and bridges have distinctive uses in dentistry. If you’re having trouble with your smile, see if having one or the other placed by a dentist at Personal Choice Dental in Old Bridge might be the best solution.

The Dental Crown Procedure
Getting a dental crown installed is one of the most straightforward cosmetic and restorative procedures performed in dentistry. Also called a cap, a crown replaces old, stained, worn-down enamel that has lost its luster and strength after many years. The crown material, commonly made of porcelain, is very tough and durable. It will stay in good condition for 10 or more years before it needs to be replaced. Before a crown can be placed, the outer layer of the tooth must be prepared by your dentist to make room for the device.

The Bridges Procedure
A dental bridge is composed of two crowns and one or more pontics (another word for false teeth). This is a traditional way to replace missing teeth without using a removable denture. A bridge gives the patient more confidence and security compared to a partial denture, which can slip out of place. The crowns serve as anchors. The adjacent teeth must be strong and healthy enough to support them. They will be prepared by your dentist so that crowns can be bonded to them. Using impressions, a dental technician will create a life-like crown-supported bridge, including pontics, to fit your smile.

Benefits of Crowns and Bridges
Though crowns and bridges use similar technology, they have separate benefits. One treatment helps fortify weakened teeth, while the other provides strength to the whole smile after tooth loss. Here are some of the benefits of these procedures that you can discuss in detail with your Old Bridge dentist:

- Crowns and bridges will last for a decade or more.
- Crowns protect and secure the teeth.
- Crowns and bridges are easy to maintain—just brush, floss, and rinse.

Discuss These Restorative Treatments with Your Dentist
​Having your smile restored should be at the top of your list of things to do this year. Call (732) 727-1211 today to schedule a consultation regarding restorative crowns and bridges with Dr. Anthony Vitale or Dr. Jin Yoo at their office in Old Bridge.