Bridges

Dental bridges are an ideal solution for replacing lost or extracted teeth because they look completely natural. They not only improve the appearance of your smile, but they help to protect your teeth and gums from bone loss. If you need help to replace a tooth that’s missing, or if you have a tooth that’s too damaged to be saved, a dental bridge is a perfectly discreet solution. Talk to your dentist today regarding the many benefits of dental bridges.

Four Types of Dental Bridges Are Available

Your dentist will help you decide which type of bridge is best for you, but you may have several from which to choose, including:

Fixed Bridge

A traditional fixed bridge is probably the most common. This consists of one or more false teeth, or pontics, surrounded on both sides by single crowns. The crowns are affixed to the healthy teeth on both sides of your gap, and the pontic fills the space in the middle. If you’re lacking two healthy teeth to hold the end crowns, an implant-supported bridge may be the solution.

Implant-Supported Bridge

The implant-supported bridge works just like the fixed bridge, but the crowns are fitted onto dental implants. This procedure takes longer because before your dentist can place your bridge, they must place implanted posts and allow them time to osseointegrate into the bone beneath your gums. This gives your bridge a solid connection on each side.

Cantilever Bridge

The cantilever bridge is anchored on one side, instead of on both sides. So, if you have no healthy tooth on one side of your gap, your dentist may recommend a cantilever bridge. Usually, a cantilever bridge is an option when only one tooth is missing and there is one healthy tooth adjoining.

Maryland Bridge

A Maryland bridge is used to replace a tooth that’s missing in the front of your mouth. It consists of a pontic, surrounded on both sides by ‘wings’ which are affixed to the back of the teeth on either side. Usually, the wings are made of thin metal that’s easy to cement to the rear of a tooth.

Dental Bridges Have Many Benefits

Dental bridges are usually a quicker fix than implants. They’re usually cheaper, as well. They restore your smile to its original dazzle, and they make it easier to bite, chew, and speak normally. The ‘teeth’ on your dental bridge are able to do everything a natural tooth can do, and they can be dyed to match the shade of the surrounding teeth. Probably most importantly, they protect your mouth and facial structure from bone loss.

If you’re interested in learning more about dental bridges, call Gentle Dental Care today.