One of the first steps to getting your oral health back on track is determining what treatment you may need. Learn about the differences between dental crowns, bridges, implants and veneers, and how each can help you get your beautiful smile back.
Dental crowns and tooth, isolated on white
What is a dental crown?
Purpose: Cover & restore a damaged tooth without extraction
A dental crown, also known as a “cap” is used to restore teeth without actually removing or implanting any teeth. The crown is placed over an existing damaged tooth and is cemented in place.
Dental implant – implanted in jaw bone. Isolated on white
What is a dental implant?
Purpose: Replace a tooth with a fully functional implant embedded in your jaw
Dental implants are installed securely into your jaw bone and are modern dentistry’s best answer to replacing teeth. The implant itself is fused with your bone, and a natural-looking crown makes up the visible tooth portion. Multiple implants can also be combined in a bridge.
Healthy teen mouth with beautiful white teeth
What is a dental veneer?
Purpose: Add a luminous white coating to your teeth
A dental veneer is a thin coating of white, gleaming porcelain which is used to cover the surface of a tooth. Unlike crowns, bridges and implants, veneers are primarily aesthetic, and are less commonly used for dental health problems.
What is the difference between a crown, bridge, implant and veneer?
Here is an overview of the differences between each dental solution:
Dental Crowns
- Restore a damaged tooth by covering it with a porcelain cap
- For cosmetic and restorative purposes
Dental Bridge
- Used to replace one or more missing teeth
- Can be fitted with dental crowns or implants
- For cosmetic and restorative purposes
Dental Implant
- A fully functional tooth replacement that is embedded into the jaw
- Can be installed with a bridge to replace multiple missing teeth
- For cosmetic and restorative purposes
Dental Veneer
- A coating used to reshape or brighten teeth that are misshapen or discolored
- Primarily used for cosmetic purposes, but can be restorative