Introduction:

        Crown: A Crown is the name given to a cap or a coping which covers the entire tooth surface. It is given for the purpose of :-
*    aesthetics ( for the discoloured tooth ),
*    support,
*    and strength ( for the weakened tooth ).
During crown fabrication, a thin layer of tooth surface is removed to make space for the crown, the impression of the tooth is made and then the crown is fabricated using the model ( made from the impression ) and then cemented on the tooth.
 

        Bridge: A Bridge is the name given to a unit comprising of 2 or more crowns. The name Bridge is self-explanatory .... as a bridge joins 2 land-masses separated by a river, the dental Bridge also extends from 1 tooth on one side, over a missing tooth area to the other tooth on other side. Thus, it replaces the missing tooth while taking support from teeth on either side. During Bridge fabrication, both the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth are slightly reduced in size to make space for the bridge, the impression of the teeth is made and then the bridge is fabricated using the model ( made from the impression ) and then cemented in place.

Advantages:

• A Crown gives strength to a RC treated tooth
• A Crown gives natural colour to a discoloured tooth
• A Crown protects the underlying weakened tooth

• A Bridge replaces the missing tooth so that aesthetics & chewing function are restored
• A Bridge is cemented, so there is no hassle of its removal at night