Dental Crowns or Bridges: Which Restoration Is Right for Your Missing Tooth? 

Dental Crowns or Bridges: Which Restoration Is Right for Your Missing Tooth? 

A missing or severely damaged tooth can affect how you chew, speak, and feel about your smile. Fortunately, modern restorative dentistry offers highly effective solutions to bring back both the function and beauty of your teeth.

At Emery & Scuro DMD, PC in Rochester, New York, Carol Scuro, DMD, Bradford Emery, DMD, and Nicholas Emery, DDS, help patients restore their smiles with customized treatments. If you're dealing with a compromised or missing tooth, we'll help you choose between a dental crown and a dental bridge to find the perfect fit for your needs.

What’s the difference between a dental crown and a bridge?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits directly over an existing, damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. In contrast, a dental bridge is designed to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth to the healthy teeth on either side. Both options are part of our comprehensive crown and bridge services.

Choosing the right restoration is an important investment in your long-term oral health. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), national dental care expenditures in the United States reached $189 billion in 2024, reflecting how much Americans value maintaining their smiles.

How do you know which restoration is right for you?

We recommend a dental crown when you have a single tooth that is cracked, severely decayed, or weakened but still has a healthy root. The crown covers the visible portion of the tooth, protecting it from further decay and restoring its natural appearance.

If you’re already missing a tooth entirely, a dental bridge is often the more appropriate choice. A fixed bridge fills the empty space, prevents your remaining teeth from shifting out of place, and restores your ability to chew normally.

Research from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) shows that fixed dental bridges supported by natural teeth are highly successful, demonstrating an overall survival rate of 96.4% per year. This makes them an incredibly reliable option for treating partial tooth loss.

We’re committed to helping you achieve a healthy, functional smile that you love to show off. Our experienced team will evaluate your teeth, discuss your goals, and recommend the best restorative treatment for your unique situation.

You don't have to live with the discomfort or self-consciousness of a damaged or missing tooth. Call our office at 585-684-8423 today or use our online booking feature to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward restoring your smile.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Gum Disease After Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Gum Disease After Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Your sweet baby is here, so now you can turn your attention to those red, swollen gums you had while you were pregnant. Read on to learn how your smile can bounce back with expert care and gentle gum disease treatment.