Crowns vs. Bridges: Which Is Best for Restoring Your Smile?

When you're dealing with damaged or missing teeth, two of the most trusted solutions in restorative dentistry are dental crowns and dental bridges. But how do you know which is right for your unique smile? At Aleris Salem Dental Center, our goal is to help you make informed decisions that support long-term oral health and confidence.

In this guide, we’ll compare crowns and bridges, break down their benefits, and help you understand the best situations for each treatment.

Understanding the Basics: What Are Crowns and Bridges?

Before diving into the pros and cons, let’s define what we’re talking about.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth. It's designed to restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are typically made from porcelain, ceramic, or metal and are bonded permanently over your existing tooth.

Ideal for:

• Cracked or broken teeth

• Severely decayed teeth

• Teeth with large fillings

• Covering a dental implant

• Enhancing the appearance of a tooth

  
  

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge literally “bridges” the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth anchored by dental crowns placed on adjacent healthy teeth or implants.

Ideal for:

• Replacing one or more missing teeth

• Preventing teeth from shifting

• Restoring bite and chewing ability

• Maintaining facial structure

  
  

Crowns vs. Bridges: Key Differences

Feature	Dental Crowns	Dental Bridges
Function	Protect and restore a damaged tooth	Replace one or more missing teeth
Support Type	Covers a single existing tooth or implant	Anchored to adjacent teeth or implants
Longevity	10–15 years with proper care	10–15 years with proper care
Invasiveness	Less invasive (on healthy surrounding teeth)	Requires reshaping adjacent teeth
Cost	Generally lower than bridges	Higher cost due to additional crowns/teeth

When Is a Crown the Best Option?

If your tooth is still present but compromised, a crown is usually the most conservative and effective treatment. Crowns are best when:

• The tooth structure is mostly intact.

• You have a root canal-treated tooth needing protection.

• You want to restore the aesthetics of a discolored or misshapen tooth.

• You’re covering a dental implant post.

Tip: Dental crowns can also be part of a full smile makeover when cosmetic and structural improvements are needed.

When Is a Bridge the Best Option?

Bridges shine when you’re missing one or more teeth in a row and want a non-removable, natural-looking solution. Choose a bridge when:

• You have lost a tooth and want a fixed alternative to dentures.

• Implants are not ideal due to cost or bone loss.

• You want to prevent shifting of adjacent teeth.

However, bridges do require modifying healthy teeth to support the structure. At Aleris Salem Dental Center, we evaluate the condition of your supporting teeth to ensure long-term success.

Pros and Cons: Crowns vs. Bridges

Dental Crowns – Pros:

• Preserve natural tooth structure

• Excellent for cosmetic improvements

• Less maintenance over time

  
  

Dental Crowns – Cons:

• Can fracture or loosen over time

• Doesn’t replace missing teeth on its own

  
  

Dental Bridges – Pros:

• Fills the gap of missing teeth

• Restores function and aesthetics

• Permanent and non-removable

  
  

Dental Bridges – Cons:

• Requires alteration of adjacent teeth

• Can be more challenging to clean beneath

  
  

Caring for Your Restoration

Whether you choose a crown or bridge, oral hygiene is key to longevity:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.

• Floss daily—especially under bridges using floss threaders.

• Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams.

• Avoid biting hard foods like ice or nutshells.

Proper maintenance helps both options last over a decade or more with minimal issues.

Choosing the Right Treatment at Aleris Salem Dental Center

Every smile is different. At Aleris Salem Dental Center, our experienced team takes time to evaluate your needs using digital imaging and thorough examinations. We’ll discuss your goals, budget, and preferences to recommend the ideal treatment—be it crowns, bridges, or a combination.

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

Choosing between crowns vs. bridges doesn’t have to be confusing. With expert guidance and personalized care from Aleris Salem Dental Center, you’ll be on your way to a stronger, more beautiful smile.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and find the best solution tailored just for you.

Call us at (855) 745-0055 or book online!