I'm Not Sure if I Need a Dental Bridge or a Crown. Can You Help?

If you have lost a tooth or have dental damage, it can be a little overwhelming to try to determine which type of restoration would be right for your needs. But it’s important to act quickly in these cases because if they aren’t addressed a damaged or missing tooth can result in further dental issues that may require complicated and costly treatment to correct.

At Dr. Fairfax & Associates, we want to help you understand the treatments that are available to restore your smile back to its full health and beauty. 

How Dental Crowns Are Used

A dental crown is a restoration that is designed to completely surround a tooth. There are several materials to choose from when designing a crown, but most patients prefer the esthetic advantage of all-porcelain. Since a crown conceals a tooth and blends seamlessly with your smile, they can be used in several ways:

• A tooth that has already had multiple fillings and requires strength than a filling can provide
• A fractured tooth needs to be protected from further damage 
• You have had a root canal and your dentist recommends a crown to protect and strengthen the tooth
• An aesthetic solution for a tooth that is poorly shaped or proportioned or severely stained

Dental Bridges Replace Missing Teeth

The purpose of a dental bridge is to act as an esthetic replacement after a tooth is lost. A bridge is typically made up of an artificial tooth (pontic) that is suspended by a dental crown on either side. The crowns are secured to adjacent teeth and the pontic sits inside the empty space.

If you are concerned about stability or there is more than one tooth to replace, a dental implant can be placed in your jaw and attached to the bridge to hold it securely in place

Crowns & Bridges in Fairfax, VA

We would be happy to answer your questions and help you decide whether crowns or bridges at our Fairfax, VA dental office would be appropriate for you!