What Is the Difference Between a Crown and Bridge: Quick Guide

Choosing the right restoration can feel confusing when your dentist recommends fixing a damaged tooth. We'll answer the question, what is the difference between a crown and bridge, in plain language so you know what to expect and can talk confidently with your Scottsdale dentist.

Summary

A crown restores a single tooth by covering it like a cap, while a bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring prosthetic teeth to crowns on adjacent teeth. Crowns protect and strengthen an individual tooth, bridges restore chewing and appearance when teeth are missing. Both are common restorative options offered by a compassionate local practice such as Scottsdale Dentist.

What Is a Dental Crown?

Definition and purpose

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth. Crowns restore strength, shape, function, and aesthetics. They can be made from porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination, depending on your needs.

Common reasons you may need a crown

  • Large decay that can’t be fixed with a filling.
  • A cracked or fractured tooth needing full coverage.
  • After root canal therapy, to protect the treated tooth.
  • To cover an implant abutment when replacing a missing tooth. See our dental implants page for details about combining crowns and implants.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

Definition and purpose

A dental bridge fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. Traditional fixed bridges use crowns placed on the teeth next to the gap, called abutment teeth, which support one or more prosthetic teeth, called pontics.

When dentists recommend a bridge

  • To restore chewing and speech after tooth loss.
  • To prevent neighboring teeth from shifting.
  • When dental implants are not an option or patient prefers a non-surgical solution. Scottsdale Dentist offers both implant and bridge options, so you can choose the best restoration for your smile.

Key Differences, Side by Side

Scope and purpose

  • Crown: Restores a single tooth, covering it entirely.
  • Bridge: Replaces one or more missing teeth by spanning the gap and relying on neighboring teeth or implants.

How they attach

  • Crown: Cemented to a prepared tooth or to an implant abutment.
  • Bridge: Cemented to crowns on adjacent teeth or attached to implant abutments in an implant-supported bridge.

When each is used

  • Crown: When a tooth is salvageable but weakened or badly restored.
  • Bridge: When one or more teeth are missing and you want a fixed, non-removable option.

Cost and lifespan

  • Crowns: Often less expensive than a multi-unit bridge, with a typical lifespan of 10 to 15 years or longer with good care.
  • Bridges: Costs vary with the number of units and materials, lifespan commonly 7 to 15 years. Implant-supported solutions may last longer.

Procedure and Timeline

Crown process

  1. Assessment and x-rays.
  2. Tooth preparation, impressions, and a temporary crown.
  3. Permanent crown placement at a follow-up appointment.

Bridge process

  1. Preparation of abutment teeth and impressions.
  2. Fabrication of the bridge in a dental lab, placement of a temporary bridge if needed.
  3. Final fitting and cementation at a later visit.

Both procedures are typically completed in two or three visits, depending on whether your dentist uses same-day CAD/CAM crowns.

Recovery, Care, and Maintenance

  • Maintain excellent oral hygiene, brushing twice daily and flossing carefully around crowns and bridges.
  • Use a floss threader or interdental brushes to clean under a bridge pontic.
  • Visit your dentist for regular exams and professional cleanings. Learn more about routine dental cleanings and exams here.
  • Avoid chewing very hard foods on a newly placed restoration for a short period.

Choosing Between Crown, Bridge, or Implant

Here are some factors your dentist will consider:

  • Number of missing teeth and location in the arch.
  • Health and strength of adjacent teeth.
  • Bone level and overall oral health, such as periodontal status. Scottsdale Dentist provides periodontal evaluation to determine suitability.
  • Budget and long-term goals, including whether you prefer a surgical implant option. Review dental implants information when exploring long-term replacements.

Your Park Scottsdale dentist will explain options clearly and recommend a plan that fits your lifestyle.

Cost Considerations and Insurance

Costs vary by material, lab fees, and whether implants are involved. Dental insurance often covers part of the crown or bridge cost. Scottsdale Dentist’s team can help you estimate costs and file claims, plus discuss financing options.

Why Trust Scottsdale Dentist for Crowns and Bridges

Dr. Jennifer Bundy and the team focus on patient comfort, modern technology, and lasting results. Dr. Bundy was recognized as a Top Arizona General Dentist for 2025, and our office offers gentle, personalized care for families in the 85250 area and Park Scottsdale neighborhoods. Learn more about our cosmetic dentistry services and meet the team.

Mid-article photorealistic image showing a female dentist in scrubs preparing a porcelain crown on a model tooth, with an ...

Frequently Asked Questions

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

A crown caps a single damaged or treated tooth to restore strength and appearance, while a bridge replaces missing tooth or teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent crowned teeth or implants.

Can a bridge be used instead of an implant?

Yes, a bridge is a common alternative to an implant when surgery is not desired or not possible. Implants often preserve bone better long term, but a bridge can be faster and less invasive.

How long do crowns and bridges last?

With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, crowns and bridges commonly last 7 to 15 years, often longer. Lifespan depends on materials, bite forces, and oral care.

Will getting a crown or bridge be painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia is used during preparation, and modern sedation or comfort options can ease anxiety. Scottsdale Dentist provides compassionate care to minimize discomfort.

Can a bridge damage neighboring teeth?

Traditional bridges require preparing adjacent teeth for crowns, which means altering healthy tooth structure. Implant-supported bridges avoid preparing adjacent teeth and may preserve natural teeth.

How do I care for a bridge differently than a crown?

Bridges require special cleaning under the pontic using floss threaders or interdental brushes. Crowns are cared for like natural teeth, but you should avoid sticky or very hard foods for a short time after placement.

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

If you’re in Scottsdale and weighing options, talk to our team. Call (480) 948-1720 or contact us online to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Jennifer Bundy. We’ll review crowns, bridges, and implant options and recommend a plan that fits your needs.

Conclusion

Both crowns and bridges are reliable ways to restore function and appearance. Crowns protect and restore individual teeth, while bridges replace missing teeth and restore a complete smile. Your best choice depends on tooth condition, overall oral health, and long-term goals. Scottsdale Dentist combines modern techniques and patient-centered care to guide you to the right restoration.

About Scottsdales Dentist

Scottsdales Dentist is a trusted, top-rated dental practice located in the heart of Scottsdale, Arizona (85250). Led by Dr. Jennifer Bundy, DDS — recognized as a Top Arizona General Dentist for 2025 — our office provides complete family and cosmetic dental care with a focus on comfort, technology, and long-term oral health.

We combine personalized, gentle care with the latest advancements in cosmetic dentistry, preventive cleanings, and dental implants to help patients achieve healthy, confident smiles. Whether you need same-day emergency dental care or advanced smile restoration, our experienced team delivers exceptional results in a calm, friendly setting.

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Ready to Schedule an Appointment?

We’re accepting new patients! Call (480) 948-1720 or contact us online to schedule your next visit at Scottsdales Dentist.