Curious To Know More About Dental Bridges?
If you have a missing tooth, a dental bridge is a common treatment option that can replace the missing tooth by bridging the gap. In this article, we’ll explore what dental bridges are, their benefits and drawbacks, the different types of dental bridges, and who might be a good candidate for this treatment.
The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth
Missing teeth can cause more than just cosmetic issues. It can lead to difficulties in talking and chewing, cause teeth adjacent to the gap to shift, and may even lead to gum disease and jaw joint disorders like TMJ. Therefore, it’s crucial to replace a missing tooth as soon as possible.
Traditional Bridges
Traditional bridges are the most common type of dental bridge. They involve creating a crown for the abutment tooth on either side of the missing tooth, with a replacement tooth (pontic) in between. Traditional bridges are made of either porcelain fused to metal or ceramic.
Cantilever Bridges
In areas of the mouth that are under less stress, such as the front teeth, a cantilever dental bridge may be used. It’s a bridge where the false tooth is only supported on one side.
Maryland Bonded Bridges
The Maryland bridge technique uses metal or resin “wings” on each side of the bridge that are bonded to the existing teeth. A Maryland bonded bridge is also called a resin-bonded bridge. The main benefit of this type of dental bridge is that healthy teeth either side need either minimal or no preparation.
Implant-Supported Bridges
If you’re missing more than one tooth, an implant-supported bridge may be the most suitable option. This technique involves the placement of two or more dental implants with space between them. These implants serve as the abutments (anchors) for the permanently cemented bridgework. Dental implants provide a solid support for the bridge.
Candidates for Dental Bridges
Most people who are missing one or more natural teeth are suitable candidates for dental bridges. The type of bridge that is most appropriate depends primarily on which tooth or teeth are missing, as well as the health and structural integrity of the adjacent teeth.
Candidates for Implant-Supported Bridges
Implants go directly inside the jawbone. Therefore, patients who are considering an implant-supported bridge must have enough healthy bone volume to support the posts. Our dentist will conduct a complete examination to determine a patient’s candidacy for an implant-supported bridge.
At Westchester Smile Design, we have the experience and expertise to bring together the various advanced dental disciplines required to create dental bridges that not only look great but also function correctly, are healthy, and will last for many years to come. If you’re interested in getting a dental bridge to hide a missing tooth, make an appointment with us today. We’ll explain the process of how a dental bridge works and help you decide if it’s the best option for you.
