Crowns, Fillings, Bridges, and Implants: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to dental work, the terminology can get confusing fast. You may have heard your dentist mention crowns, fillings, bridges, or implants, but what do all these actually mean—and how do you know which one is right for your situation?

At Modern Dental of Durham, we believe in helping our patients make informed decisions about their oral health. Below is a simple breakdown of these four common dental treatments, what they’re used for, and how they differ.

🦷 1. Fillings: The First Line of Defense

Best for: Small to moderate cavities or tooth decay.

What they are:A filling is used to restore

a tooth that has been damaged by decay. Your dentist will remove the decayed portion and “fill” the space with a material like composite resin (tooth-colored), amalgam (silver), or another dental-safe substance.

Why you might need one:If you have a cavity that’s not too deep, a filling is usually the simplest and least invasive solution.

👑 2. Crowns: Protection for Weakened Teeth

Best for: Severely decayed, cracked, or weakened teeth.

What they are:A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that covers the entire visible surface of a damaged tooth. Crowns restore shape, strength, and appearance, and are made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal.

Why you might need one:If a tooth is too damaged for a filling to hold, or after a root canal, a crown provides long-term protection and function.

🌉 3. Bridges: Replacing Missing Teeth

Best for: One or more missing teeth in a row.

What they are:A dental bridge is a fixed appliance that literally “bridges” the gap created by missing teeth. It uses crowns on the adjacent teeth (called abutment teeth) to hold a false tooth (or teeth) in place.

Why you might need one:Bridges are a great solution when you’re missing a tooth but aren’t ready for or don’t qualify for an implant.

🦷⚙️ 4. Implants: The Gold Standard for Tooth Replacement

Best for: Permanent replacement of missing teeth.

What they are:Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone, acting like artificial tooth roots. Once healed, they are topped with a crown, creating a fully functional and natural-looking tooth.

Why you might need one:Implants are durable, long-lasting, and feel most like real teeth. They also help prevent bone loss that can occur when teeth are missing for long periods.

💡 How to Know What’s Right for You

Each option comes with unique benefits—and the right choice depends on your specific dental needs, overall oral health, and personal preferences.

At Modern Dental of Durham, we take the time to walk you through every option and recommend the best path to restore your smile with comfort and confidence.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you think you might need a filling, crown, bridge, or implant—or you're simply not sure—our friendly team is here to help.

📅 Request an appointment today and let’s get started on your journey to a healthier, happier smile.