By Dr. Richa Bhatnagar, DDS – Jacksonport Dental, NE Calgary
A healthy smile is about more than just how your teeth look—it’s about how well they function, how comfortable you feel, and how confidently you live your day-to-day life. At Jacksonport Dental, I often meet patients who are unsure whether they need a dental crown or a dental bridge, or how long these treatments last once placed.
If you’ve been told you may need a crown or bridge—or you’re experiencing pain, broken teeth, or missing teeth—this guide will help you understand when crowns and bridges are needed, how they work, and what you can expect long-term.
As a family dentist serving NE Calgary, my goal is always to help you make informed, stress-free decisions about your oral health.
What Are Dental Crowns and Bridges?
Before deciding whether you need one, it’s important to understand what these treatments are and how they help.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that completely covers a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s:
- Strength
- Shape
- Size
- Appearance
Crowns allow you to chew normally again while protecting the tooth from further damage.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It literally “bridges” the gap by anchoring an artificial tooth to the natural teeth (or crowns) on either side.
Bridges restore:
- Proper chewing function
- Speech clarity
- Facial structure
- A complete, confident smile
When Are Dental Crowns Needed?
Dental crowns are incredibly versatile and commonly recommended in several situations.
1. After a Root Canal Treatment
After a root canal, the tooth becomes more fragile. A crown:
- Protects the treated tooth
- Prevents fractures
- Restores normal biting strength
Without a crown, root canal–treated teeth are much more likely to crack.
2. For Cracked, Broken, or Severely Worn Teeth
If a tooth is:
- Cracked
- Chipped deeply
- Worn down from grinding (bruxism)
A crown reinforces the tooth and prevents further breakdown.
3. Large Fillings That Weaken the Tooth
When a tooth has a very large filling, there may not be enough natural structure left to support chewing forces. A crown provides long-term stability and protection.
4. Cosmetic Improvement
Crowns are also used to improve the appearance of:
- Severely discolored teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Teeth with uneven sizes
At Jacksonport Dental, we carefully match crowns to your natural tooth color for a seamless, natural look.
When Are Dental Bridges Needed?
Dental bridges are recommended when one or more teeth are missing and implants are not currently an option.
Common Reasons for Missing Teeth
- Tooth extraction due to decay or infection
- Gum disease
- Injury or trauma
- Congenitally missing teeth
Leaving a gap untreated can lead to serious long-term problems.
Why Replacing Missing Teeth Is Important
When a tooth is missing:
- Neighboring teeth shift out of position
- Bite alignment changes
- Jawbone begins to shrink
- Chewing becomes less efficient
A dental bridge helps prevent these issues while restoring function and aesthetics.
Types of Dental Crowns and Bridges
At Jacksonport Dental, we customize every treatment based on your needs, budget, and oral health.
Types of Crowns
- Emax Crowns– ideal from front teeth
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
- Zirconia Crowns
Types of Bridges
- Traditional Bridges – Anchored to crowns on adjacent teeth
- Cantilever Bridges – Used when only one adjacent tooth is available
- Maryland Bridges – Minimal preparation, often used for front teeth
I’ll always explain the pros and cons of each option before moving forward.
How Long Do Dental Crowns and Bridges Last?
This is one of the most common questions I hear from patients.
Average Lifespan
- Dental crowns: 10 years (often longer with good care)
- Dental bridges: 10 years
Many patients enjoy their crowns and bridges for 10-15 years or more with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
Factors That Affect Longevity
- Daily oral hygiene habits
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Diet (hard or sticky foods)
- Regular dental checkups
- Overall gum health
How to Care for Crowns and Bridges
Crowns and bridges don’t require complicated care—but consistency is key.
Daily Care Tips
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush
- Floss daily (including under bridges using floss threaders)
- Use fluoride toothpaste
- Avoid chewing ice or hard objects
Regular Dental Visits
Routine checkups allow us to:
- Monitor your restoration
- Check for wear or cracks
- Ensure surrounding gums remain healthy
At Jacksonport Dental, we focus on preventive care, not just fixing problems after they arise.
Are Crowns and Bridges Covered by Insurance?
Many dental insurance plans—including CDCP (Canadian Dental Care Plan)—may cover part of the cost of crowns and bridges, depending on eligibility and clinical need.
Our team:
- Offers direct insurance billing
- Explains coverage clearly before treatment
- Helps you maximize benefits
We believe financial concerns should never stop you from receiving necessary dental care.
Crowns & Bridges vs Dental Implants
Patients often ask whether implants are “better” than bridges.
Crowns & Bridges
- Faster treatment
- Lower upfront cost
- Excellent for many patients
Dental Implants
- Replace the tooth root
- Prevent jawbone loss
- Longer treatment timeline
During your consultation, I’ll help you decide which option best suits your oral health, timeline, and comfort level.
Why Choose Jacksonport Dental for Crowns & Bridges in NE Calgary?
At Jacksonport Dental, we treat every patient like family. Our approach is:
- Patient-focused and transparent
- Gentle and minimally invasive
- Modern, technology-driven
- Multilingual (Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu)
- Open 7 days a week, including Sundays
Most importantly, we take time to listen, educate, and ensure you feel confident about your treatment.
Final Thoughts from Dr. Richa Bhatnagar
Crowns and bridges are not just dental procedures—they are long-term investments in your comfort, confidence, and overall health. Whether you’re dealing with a damaged tooth or a missing one, early treatment can prevent bigger problems down the road.
If you’re unsure whether you need a crown or bridge, I invite you to book a consultation at Jacksonport Dental. Together, we’ll find the best solution for your smile.
📍 Visit Us
Jacksonport Dental
3730 104 Ave NE, Unit 124
Calgary, AB T3N 0T1
📞 403-815-3040
🌐 www.jacksonportdental.ca
