You might be a good candidate for dental bridgework if you are among the estimated 120 million Americans missing at least one tooth. A dental bridge consists of one or more prosthetic teeth fused to a metal frame securely anchored between existing teeth to “bridge” the gap. While dental bridgework serves as a natural-looking cosmetic fix to restore one’s smile, it also provides functional benefits by maintaining existing teeth positioning and strengthening the overall bite, underlying gum tissue, and jawbone.

If misalignment, discoloration, damage, or the loss of one or more teeth is impacting the beauty of your smile, your dentist might recommend dentures or veneers as an effective fix. You might know that dentures are often called “false teeth” and that veneers are rumored to give many Hollywood stars their “perfect teeth.” But what exactly are dentures and veneers, and which option will best help perfect your smile?

A dental crown protects and strengthens the underlying tooth and restores the natural look of your smile when a tooth has been damaged. If you lose a crown, the underlying tooth becomes unprotected and likely misshapen, compromising your oral health and the beauty of your smile. Should your dental crown fall off, you’re facing a dental emergency and must take distinct steps to protect the compromised tooth and get the lost crown reattached or replaced.