Choosing the Right Restorative Solution
When you have a damaged or missing tooth, restorative dentistry offers reliable ways to protect your smile and restore normal function. Two of the most common solutions are dental crowns and bridges, but they serve different purposes.
If you’re in Brentwood or West Los Angeles and wondering which option is best for you, this guide explains the essential differences and helps you choose the right solution for your oral health.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged, weakened, or worn tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance—offering long-term protection and improved function.
Dentists often recommend crowns for:
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Severely worn enamel
- Large cavities or failed fillings
- Teeth that had root canal therapy
- Misshaped or discolored teeth needing cosmetic improvement
- Completing a dental implant restoration
Crowns are typically made from durable, lifelike materials such as porcelain, zirconia, or ceramic to blend seamlessly with your smile.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth. It includes an artificial tooth (or teeth) called pontics, supported by crowns on the healthy teeth next to the gap.
- Bridges are often recommended when:
- You want a fixed (non-removable) solution for missing teeth
- Dental implants aren’t an option due to health or budget
- Adjacent teeth are healthy enough to support the bridge
- You want to restore your bite and prevent teeth from shifting
Modern dental bridges are carefully crafted to match your natural teeth, restoring both appearance and function.
Key Differences Between Crowns and Bridges
While both crowns and bridges are custom restorations, they serve different purposes:
- A crown restores a single tooth that is still present but damaged.
- A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent teeth or implants.
- Crowns can be used on their own or as part of a bridge.
- Bridges typically require reshaping the supporting teeth (unless implant-supported).
With proper care—brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits—both crowns and bridges can last 10–15 years or more.
Which Restorative Option Is Right for You?
A crown may be right for you if:
- You have a damaged or weakened tooth needing reinforcement
- There’s extensive decay or a large filling
- You’ve had root canal therapy and want to protect the treated tooth
- You want to improve the shape or color of a tooth
A bridge may be the best choice if:
- You’re missing a tooth and want to avoid removable dentures
- You’re not a candidate for dental implants
- You have strong, healthy teeth next to the space
- You want a cost-effective, long-lasting solution for a missing tooth
Your dentist will carefully evaluate your teeth, gums, bone health, and goals to help you make the best decision.
Restorative Dentistry in Brentwood, Los Angeles
At Dental Design of Brentwood, we take a personalized, conservative approach to restorative dentistry. Every crown and bridge we create is designed for durability, comfort, and a natural look that fits seamlessly with your smile.
Using advanced digital imaging and trusted lab partners, we ensure an accurate fit and long-lasting results. Whether you need to restore a damaged tooth or replace a missing one, our Brentwood team is ready to provide expert care in a modern, welcoming environment.
📍 We proudly serve patients from Brentwood, Westwood, Santa Monica, and the surrounding Los Angeles communities.
Schedule Your Restorative Consultation Today
Not sure whether a crown or bridge is right for you? Let’s talk!
📅 Book a consultation with our team at Dental Design of Brentwood and take the first step toward restoring your smile with confidence.
