Do you have one or more missing teeth? If so, you might be a good candidate for a dental bridge. Now, before you get one, we think it’s important for you to fully understand what this looks like. We want you to know what dental bridges are, what its purpose is, the types of dental bridges out there, and more. This is exactly what we will cover in this article. Keep reading!
What are dental bridges?
The first thing you need to know about dental bridges are, of course, what they actually are and what they do. Dental bridges replace one or more missing teeth. A dental bridge is a false tooth (pontic) or teeth that are anchored by two dental crowns that are placed on the teeth next to where your missing tooth or teeth are. They can be made from a variety of materials, but are typically made from porcelain and blend with your natural teeth so no one can tell the difference.
What is the purpose of a dental bridge?
There are many reasons why a dentist may recommend a dental bridge to restore your smile. This includes to:
- Restore your ability to speak, eat, and chew
- Alleviate stress on your bite,
- Improve the shape and volume of your face
- Replace a partial denture
- Prevent your natural teeth from moving out of position
- Improve your smile
The main types of dental bridges
There are five main types of dental bridges. Let’s go over each one.
Traditional
A traditional dental bridge is the most common type of bridge. They consist of one or more artificial teeth that are held in place by dental crowns. These crowns are cemented onto the natural teeth adjacent to the gap, known as abutment teeth. These types of dental bridges are suitable when you have natural teeth on the sides of your missing tooth or teeth.
Cantilever
Cantilever bridges are similar to traditional bridges but are used when there is only one adjacent tooth available to support the bridge. So, these can be used when you only have one tooth available on either side of the gap.
Maryland
Maryland bridges, also known as resin-bonded bridges, are similar to traditional bridges as they use two abutment teeth. However, Maryland bridges use porcelain or metal on the abutment teeth while traditional bridges use dental crowns.
Removable
Removable dental bridges clip onto the teeth on either side of the gap, typically with metal clasps. These bridges can be taken in and out.
Implant-supported
The fourth type of dental bridge is an implant-supported dental bridge, whichuse dental implants instead of crowns or frameworks. This works by surgically placing one implant for each missing tooth, which then holds the bridge. This is typically considered the most stable of the types of dental bridges.
Dental bridges procedure
For most dental bridges you’ll need at least two appointments. For a traditional or cantilever bridge at your first appointment your dentist will:
- Remove some of the enamel from your abutment teeth to make space for the crown.
- Take impressions to shape your permanent bridge, which will be made in a lab.
- They will then place a temporary bridge until the next appointment.
At the next appointment, your dentist will:
- Remove your temporary bridge check.
- Cement the permanent bridge in place.
The procedure for an implant-supported bridge takes more visits. First you will need to get dental implant surgery to place your implants. You will then need to wait until the area heals, which may take about three to six months. Once healed, your dentist will:
- Attach connecting posts (copings) to your implant.
- Take impressions for the permanent bridge.
- Send the impressions to the lab for your permanent bridge to get made.
- Place your permanent bridge and abutments and check the fit.
- Attach the bridge permanently with screws or cement.
Dental bridge care
Like your natural teeth, a dental bridge requires care to make sure it remains healthy and lasts for as long as possible (they typically last around 5 to 15 years). Here’s what you can do to make your dental bridge last:
- Brush your teeth at least once a day and floss your teeth once a day
- Visit your dentist for regular dental checkups and cleanings
- Avoid certain foods that might damage the bridge (like chewy or hard candy and surgery foods that can cause tooth decay under the crowns)
Visit Dr. Ruiz & Associates, Inc in Burbank, CA
If you have a missing tooth or teeth that you want corrected, it’s time to consider dental bridges! And if you’re looking for a dentist in Burbank, CA, come visit Dr. Ruiz & Associates, Inc!
Dr. Ruiz is a renowned dentist, educator, and researcher who is known as a pioneer in supra-gingival minimally invasive dentistry, or “above the gums dentistry.” This is a healthier form of dentistry that protects soft oral tissues and produces long-lasting, beautiful results. And all of our staff are trained in these techniques. Check out our Google reviews and schedule an appointment with us today!
