Dental Crowns vs. Bridges: Which Is Right for Your Wasilla Smile?

One tooth is damaged or missing, and your dentist mentions two fixes: a crown or a bridge. They sound similar, but they solve different problems. The right choice depends on whether the tooth is still there.

This guide compares dental crowns and bridges for Wasilla patients. We cover what each one does, when each makes sense, and how they compare on cost, longevity, and care in the Mat-Su Valley.

Key Takeaways

• A crown caps and protects a single damaged tooth that is still in place.
• A bridge fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth.
• Your choice comes down to whether the tooth is damaged or gone.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A crown is a custom cap that covers a whole tooth. It restores the shape, strength, and look of a tooth that is cracked, worn, or heavily filled.

When a Crown Makes Sense

Crowns work when the natural tooth root is healthy but the visible tooth is compromised. Common cases include a large cavity, a cracked tooth, or a tooth after a root canal.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A bridge replaces a missing tooth. It uses crowns on the healthy teeth on each side of the gap to anchor a false tooth in the middle.

When a Bridge Makes Sense

A bridge fits when a tooth is already gone and the neighboring teeth are strong. It restores your bite, keeps nearby teeth from shifting, and fills the smile.

Crown vs. Bridge: How to Choose

The decision is simpler than it sounds. Ask one question: is the tooth still there?

• Tooth present but damaged, choose a crown.
• Tooth missing with healthy neighbors, choose a bridge.
• Tooth missing and you want to avoid crowning healthy teeth, ask about an implant.

Cost, Longevity, and Care

A bridge costs more than a single crown, since it covers more teeth. Both last many years with good care. Brushing, flossing, and regular checkups in Wasilla protect your investment.

At Sun Mountain Dental, we match the restoration to your tooth, your bite, and your budget, not to a one-size template.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between a crown and a bridge?

A crown restores one damaged tooth that is still there. A bridge replaces a tooth that is missing.

How long do crowns and bridges last?

Both can last well over a decade with good care. Daily cleaning and regular dental visits make the biggest difference.

Is a bridge better than an implant?

It depends. A bridge is faster and uses neighboring teeth. An implant stands alone and spares those teeth. We help you compare both.

Will it hurt to get a crown or bridge?

The procedure is done with numbing, so it is comfortable. Mild sensitivity afterward is normal and fades within a few days.

Restore Your Wasilla Smile

The right fix protects your tooth and your bite for years. When you are ready, our team examines the tooth and walks you through your options. Sun Mountain Dental provides crowns and bridges in Wasilla built to match your smile. Book a visit and we will help you choose with confidence.