Is a Dental Bridge Right for You?

A dental bridge is a prosthetic device that is used to literally bridge the gap between two teeth. Bridges are primarily used to hold artificial teeth in place by cementing a crown on the two healthy teeth on both sides of the missing tooth. The anchoring teeth are known as abutments and the false tooth attached to the crowns is known as the pontic.

If you have a missing tooth, or multiple missing teeth, a dental bridge is one of the best non-invasive ways to replace the missing tooth. However, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist to get your mouth examined to determine the type of dental bridge to use to replace your missing tooth.

Types of dental bridges

Like most prosthetic dental devices, dental bridges are made from a variety of materials. The most popular types of bridges are the ones made from porcelain and ceramic because they look like your natural teeth and can be color-matched to your teeth, making them hard to distinguish.

Metal alloy bridges are the cheapest option, but they are not as popular as porcelain or ceramic because they do not look like natural teeth and are easy to spot. Below are the different types of dental bridges currently available.

Traditional bridge

This is the most commonly used type of dental bridge. The procedure is used when you have natural teeth on both sides of the space where your missing tooth used to be. Dental crowns are cemented on both teeth and hold the artificial tooth in place in the space left by the missing tooth.

Traditional dental bridges are strong enough to replace your molars and can last years before they have to be replaced. The downside to traditional bridges is that your dentist will have to remove the enamel on the adjacent teeth to fit the crowns on top of them.

Maryland bridge

This type of dental bridge is a conservative alternative to a traditional bridge, used when patients do not want dental crowns used to hold the artificial tooth in place. The procedure requires the bonding of either a metal or porcelain framework to the back of the adjacent teeth.

Since the artificial tooth is held in place by a frame, it is not as sturdy as the traditional bridge, which holds the tooth in place with cement.

Cantilever bridge

Like the traditional dental bridge, a cantilever bridge holds the artificial tooth in place by cementing the tooth. However, this method only uses one of the adjacent teeth to hold the artificial tooth in place.

Implant-supported bridge

Implant-supported bridges have become popular when it comes to replacing missing teeth because they can be used to fix multiple missing teeth at the same time. Instead of using dental crowns or frames, your dentist will replace your missing tooth with a dental implant, which holds the bridge in place.

This procedure is very popular because it is the most durable type of dental bridge. You do not have to worry about the bridge failing or your artificial teeth falling out of place because the implants are fused to your jaw bone and can last up to a lifetime if you take proper care of them.

Conclusion

Dental bridges are used to replace missing or damaged teeth, helping to restore your smile and confidence. If you have missing teeth and want to get the problem fixed, talk to your dentist to find out more about whether a dental bridge might be right for you.

Request an appointment here: https://www.foothillfamilydentists.com or call Foothill Family Dentistry at (949) 506-2115 for an appointment in our Foothill Ranch office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bridges.

Recent Posts

3 Benefits Of Dental Bridges

A dental bridge can help restore your dental health and appearance. Tooth loss can cause more dental problems. Replacing the missing teeth can restore your smile and improve your dental health. Getting this dental restoration might be the tooth loss solution you need. Here are the three basic dental bridge benefits you must consider.Losing at…

4 Types Of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are an excellent way to replace missing teeth and maintain your smile. When you have a dental bridge, you must know the different types of bridges available to make the best decision for your personal needs. This article will cover four types of dental bridges: fixed bridgework, traditional removable dentures, implant-supported dentures, and…

How A Dental Bridge Is Held In Place

A dental bridge is an oral prosthetic that closes the space left by multiple missing teeth. It has two main components: artificial teeth called pontics and crowns (abutments) placed on the two teeth closest to the space on both sides. The artificial teeth can be made from various materials like gold, silver, and other metals,…

4 Tips For Dental Bridges Aftercare

You should always take care of your teeth, but it becomes especially important when you have dental bridges. Here are four proven tips to help maintain your dental bridges at home so they can last longer. These cleaning tips will help prevent cavities under your dental bridge and prevent extra unexpected trips to the dentist.Every…

Foothill Family Dentistry

Share
Published by
Foothill Family Dentistry

Recent Posts

The Importance of Seeing a Preventive Dentist Regularly

Patients who want to keep their smile bright for as long as possible should regularly…

3 weeks ago

When Should You Replace an Old Dental Filling?

Replacing old dental fillings is a part of good oral healthcare from time to time.

2 months ago

Benefits of Having a Family Dentist for Your Oral Health

A family dentist treats patients of a wide range of ages, helping them to maintain…

3 months ago

The Importance of Regular General Dentistry Visits

Regular general dentistry visits are necessary for a number of reasons, however, it ultimately comes…

4 months ago

What Foods Are Off-Limits During Braces Treatment?

It is essential for braces wearers to avoid eating certain foods while undergoing treatment. Read…

5 months ago

Indications for a Root Canal: What To Look Out For

Discolored teeth that turn brown, black, gray, or dark yellow are likely dying and need…

6 months ago