October 23, 2025

How Crowns and Bridges Are Used in Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry aims to enhance a person’s teeth, mouth, and smile by improving their appearance and function. While many procedures are elective, some also provide restorative benefits. Crowns and bridges are two common treatments that dentists use to restore both the function and aesthetics of a patient’s smile. Here is more information about how crowns and bridges can be used:

Table of Contents

Covering Damaged Teeth

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a tooth. When a tooth is cracked or severely decayed, a crown provides strength and protection, and dentists prepare the tooth by removing the damaged outer layer. Crowns are made from ceramic, porcelain, or metal alloys and designed to match surrounding teeth.

Proper maintenance for a crown involves consistent oral hygiene, and it helps prevent dental problems. Although the crown material itself is not susceptible to decay, the underlying tooth and gum line require regular brushing and flossing to prevent new issues. Your dentist will provide specific care instructions after the procedure is complete.

Replacing Missing Teeth

A bridge is a fixed prosthesis that replaces one or more missing teeth in cosmetic dentistry. It typically consists of one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, which are held in place by crowns. The abutment teeth are prepared like standalone crowns to serve as a stable foundation for the bridge, which bridges the gap of missing teeth. This method restores the appearance of a complete set of teeth.

The process for placing a bridge involves multiple appointments. After preparing the abutment teeth, the dentist takes an impression, which a dental lab uses to create the custom bridge. A temporary bridge may be placed while the permanent one is being made, and during the final appointment, the dentist will cement the permanent bridge into place and check for a proper fit.

Maintaining a dental bridge requires careful attention to cleaning underneath the pontic. Food particles and plaque may accumulate in this space, so specialized floss threaders or interdental brushes are typically recommended. Regular check-ups also help monitor the abutment teeth and the surrounding gums, promoting the longevity of the restoration.

Preventing Tooth Loss

When a large filling or fracture severely weakens a tooth, it becomes more vulnerable to breaking completely. A dental crown encloses the compromised tooth structure, distributing chewing forces evenly across its surface. This reinforcement can prevent the tooth from fracturing further, which might otherwise lead to its extraction. Protecting a weakened tooth with a crown is a proactive measure.

Improving Bite Function

Missing teeth may cause the remaining teeth to shift out of alignment. This movement may alter your bite, leading to difficulties with chewing. A bridge fills the gap left by missing teeth, providing several benefits:

Maintains tooth position
Restores chewing ability
Distributes bite forces

By stabilizing the dental arch, a bridge helps maintain proper jaw function and prevents the chain reaction of problems that may arise from a single missing tooth.

Schedule Cosmetic Dentistry Today

Dental crowns and bridges are treatments that address both aesthetic and functional dental issues. Crowns protect damaged teeth, while bridges replace missing ones, and both options contribute to a complete and functional smile. If you have damaged or missing teeth, speak with a dentist to learn about your specific treatment options and find a solution that fits your dental health needs.