Have you ever noticed how a missing tooth can affect your smile and self-confidence? A dental bridge is one of the most popular solutions for replacing missing teeth. It's a prosthetic device that fills in the gap left by one or more missing teeth, helping to restore both function and aesthetics.
A dental bridge consists of two dental crowns connected to an artificial tooth, which is known as a 'pontic.' The two crowns on either side are placed over existing healthy teeth to provide support for the pontic in the middle. This structure essentially bridges the gap between natural teeth, hence its name! Dental bridges are available in various types and materials depending on individual needs and preferences. In this article, we'll explore all there is to know about them - from their types and benefits to procedure details. So let's get started!
Types of Dental Bridges
There are four main types of dental bridges:
Traditional Dental Bridges
Traditional dental bridges are the most typical kind of dental bridge. They are comprised of one or more artificial teeth (known as pontics) that are fixed in place by dental crowns attached to the neighboring teeth (called abutment teeth). This type of bridge is best when there are natural teeth on either side of the gap.
Cantilever Dental Bridges
A cantilever dental bridge is quite similar to a traditional dental bridge but requires only one abutment tooth for support instead of two. This type of bridge is used when there is only one natural tooth adjacent to the gap.
Maryland Dental Bridges
Maryland bridges employ a more conservative approach. They involve the use of a metal or porcelain framework bonded onto the back of the adjacent teeth, which holds the pontic in position. This type of bridge is ideal for front teeth where the biting force is not as strong as in the molar region.
Implant-Supported Bridges
These dental bridges are supported by dental implants rather than natural teeth. Implant-supported bridges are the most stable and durable option, as they rely on the implants for the majority of their support.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer several advantages, such as:
- Restoring the function and appearance of your smile.
- Helping maintain facial structure and preventing bone loss.
- Relieving stress on the remaining teeth by evenly distributing biting force.
- Preventing adjacent teeth from shifting or drifting.
- Enhancing speech, particularly in cases of missing front teeth.
- Offering a durable and long-lasting solution when maintained with proper oral hygiene.
To learn more about dental bridges, like what they are and how they work, you may also check out this blog post. It will help you understand how the process works and what to expect.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
Before opting for this procedure, it is essential to consult a qualified dentist for a dental bridge in Burlington to determine the best type of bridge for your specific situation.
The procedure typically involves:
Preparation
The dentist will first prepare the abutment teeth for dental crowns by filing them down to accommodate the crowns. For implant-supported bridges, dental implants will be placed first and allowed to integrate with the bone.
Impressions and Temporary Bridge
Once the abutment teeth are prepared, a dentist will take an impression of your teeth, which will be utilized as a model to create the dental bridge. You may be provided with a temporary bridge to protect your teeth in the meantime.
Fabricating Dental Bridge
Using the impressions, a dental lab technician will create a custom dental bridge specifically designed for you.
Bridge Fitting and Adjustment
When your dental bridge is ready, your dentist will extract the temporary bridge, place the new bridge, and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the proper fit.
Cementation
Once the bridge fits correctly, it will be permanently cemented into place.
To Sum Up
Dental bridges can be an effective solution for those with missing teeth. It can improve the look and feel of your smile as well as its functionality. There are several kinds of dental bridges that have different advantages, so it is important to consult with an expert to determine the right one for you. With the correct care, a dental bridge can last for a long time, giving you a stunning and healthy smile. Thanks for reading!