You should receive a dental crown when you have a cracked, decayed or weakened tooth, as it works as a cap to restore the strength and function of your tooth.
Alternatively, you need a dental bridge when you are missing one or more consecutive teeth, as the prosthetic “bridges” the gap by anchoring to healthy teeth on either side.
Choosing a dental crown in NE Calgary is a common way to protect a damaged natural tooth, while a bridge is an effective solution for restoring a complete and balanced smile.
How Do You Know if a Crown is Necessary?
A crown is often recommended when a simple filling is no longer enough to support the structure of a tooth.
If you are asking yourself, When do I need a dental crown, it is usually because the enamel has been compromised by a large cavity or a fracture that threatens the root.
Crowns act as a protective “helmet” for the tooth, preventing it from breaking further under the pressure of chewing.
Why Should You Replace Missing Teeth with a Bridge?
Missing teeth can cause the rest of your smile to shift out of alignment, leading to jaw pain and chewing difficulties. When exploring the question, When do I need a dental bridge, consider that this option is ideal for patients who have healthy teeth surrounding a gap.
The bridge uses those neighbouring teeth as anchors to hold a realistic-looking replacement tooth in the middle.
What are the Main Differences Between These Restorations?
While both treatments restore the appearance of your smile, they serve different biological purposes.
A dentist near you will evaluate whether you need to save a single tooth or fill a void left by a missing one. Crowns focus on individual tooth preservation, whereas bridges focus on gap closure and bite alignment.
| Feature | Dental Crown | Dental Bridge |
| Primary Goal | Protect a damaged tooth | Replace missing teeth |
| Support Needed | Natural tooth root | Healthy adjacent teeth |
| Typical Material | Porcelain or Ceramic | Porcelain fused to metal |
| Procedure Time | 2 visits | 2 to 3 visits |
How Much Does a Single Tooth Restoration Cost?
The cost of any dental treatment depends on the materials and the complexity of your tooth’s condition.
The cost of dental crown treatment is based on whether you choose a standard porcelain-fused-to-metal option or a high-end, all-ceramic restoration.
Most insurance plans cover a significant portion of this procedure because it is considered a restorative necessity.
What Factors Influence the Price of a Bridge?
Because a bridge involves creating multiple connected units, the total price is generally higher than that of a single crown.
The cost of dental bridge services is determined by the number of teeth being replaced and the health of the anchor teeth.
If the neighboring teeth require additional prep work or fillings before the bridge can be attached, those steps will be included in the final estimate.
Where Can You Find Quality Restorative Care?
Finding a skilled dentist in NE Calgary ensures that your new restoration fits comfortably and looks natural.
Modern dental labs can match the colour of your porcelain to your existing teeth so perfectly that most people will never know you had work done.
High-quality materials and precise fitting are the keys to a crown or bridge that lasts for a decade or more.
Is it Possible to Find These Services Quickly?
If you have a broken tooth or a sudden loss, finding a dental bridge near you can prevent long-term complications like bone loss or drifting teeth.
Acting quickly helps maintain the shape of your face and prevents the muscles in your jaw from straining. Professional dental teams prioritize restorative cases to get your bite back to normal as fast as possible.
Investing in a Strong and Functional Smile
Restoring your teeth is about more than just looking good; it is about ensuring you can eat, speak, and smile without pain or hesitation.
Whether you need to strengthen a single tooth or replace a few that are missing, modern restorations offer a durable and aesthetic solution. Taking care of these issues now prevents more expensive and complicated problems in the future.
At Temple Square Dental, we are proud to be a trusted dentist in NE Calgary dedicated to helping our patients regain their confidence.
Our team uses advanced technology to design crowns and bridges that fit your unique smile perfectly.
We invite you to schedule a consultation with us today to discuss your restorative options and find a plan that fits your health goals and your budget.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a crown or bridge?
The process takes two appointments: one to prepare the teeth and take impressions, and a second to bond the permanent restoration.
Is the procedure painful?
No, the area is thoroughly numbed with local anesthesia, so you will only feel slight pressure during the preparation phase.
How do I clean a dental bridge?
You will need to use a special type of floss or a “floss threader” to clean underneath the replacement tooth to keep your gums healthy.
Can a crown fall off?
While rare, a crown can come loose if the cement fails. If this happens, keep the crown and contact your dental office immediately for a re-cementing.