There are many cosmetic dentistry solutions available to improve a patient’s smile, but crowns and bridges are the most popular. However, some people are confused about the differences between these two options and have trouble deciding which is right for their needs. To learn more about these options to aid in your decision, consult the comparative guide below. 

Dental Crowns

Crowns are individual caps that go directly over your natural teeth. These implants are designed to prevent weakened teeth from sustaining further damage while also improving the appearance of your smile. They come in a variety of materials, such as porcelain, acrylic, ceramic, and metal alloys, and are designed to function the same way as your natural teeth.

This option is ideal if you only have one or two teeth that need repairs. Before installing the crown, your dentist will need to determine if the natural tooth and your jaw are strong enough to support the implant.

Dental Bridges

Unlike crowns, which treat individual teeth, dental bridges are ideal if you’re missing multiple teeth. These implants fill in gaps by adhering to existing teeth surrounding the space. In most cases, they come in the same materials as crowns.

Beyond improving the appearance of your smile, bridges provide a host of health benefits. To start, they help prevent the degradation of the face and jaw, which might otherwise begin to sink. Furthermore, they make it easier for patients to engage in regular behaviors like eating or drinking, and they prevent misalignment or bite problems from developing.

If you are unhappy with your teeth and are interested in either crowns or bridges, get in touch with S. Jill Spurlin, DMD, in Enterprise, AL. Their team is proud to offer a host of general and cosmetic dentistry services designed to provide optimum oral health for all their patients. Visit them online to learn more about their services, and call (334) 475-2624 to schedule an appointment today.