A dental bridge is one of the options available for replacing one or more missing teeth. Bridgework is usually provided as a fixed solution that is not detachable, unlike dentures. Bridges work to fill the gap left by missing teeth and restore full oral functions as well as the smile. Continue reading to discover some of the types of dental bridges available.
Four main types of bridges are available, depending on the number of missing teeth and the presence of healthy teeth on the jaw. A typical bridgework contains fake teeth, known as pontics, and dental crowns to anchor the bridge.
The traditional bridge is the most common type of bridge. This bridge is used when there are one or more healthy teeth present on both sides of the missing tooth. The enamel of these teeth will be filed down, and a crown will be used to cover them. The bridge is a single extensive structure that is typically made from porcelain and fits snugly between the teeth.
The Maryland dental bridge is more conservative in comparison to the conventional dental bridge. Also called a resin-bonded or adhesive bridge, the pontics can be made of porcelain, metal, or acrylic and anchored to the gum line via a metal or porcelain framework. The framework is then connected to the teeth located close to the gap. It is an excellent option if the patient does not want to have any of their healthy teeth modified for dental crowns.
The cantilever bridge is like the traditional bridge but is used when there are healthy teeth on one side of the missing tooth only. The process entails filing down the enamel layer of the natural tooth and covering it with a crown that is connected to a pontic. Like the regular bridge, the bridge will cover the gap. This bridge is not usually recommended for restoring lost back teeth where there is a lot of chewing force generated that can damage it. They are not as common as the other types of dental bridges.
An implant bridge has a similar structure as the traditional dental bridge but is supported by dental implants, instead of natural teeth. This option can be used to replace three to six missing teeth. Two implants are placed in the jawbone on the two sides of the gap and a crown is attached, then the bridgework is between them. It is typically more stable and comfortable than the other dental bridge options.
Damaged or missing teeth can affect the appearance of the smile, as well as the ability to perform certain functions like eating and speaking. You have multiple options when it comes to restoring a missing tooth with dental bridges. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks. With the help of an experienced dentist, you can have a tooth restoration that works best for you.
Request an appointment here: https://www.drearlweisbrod.com or call Empire Dental - Earl Weisbrod, DMD at (602) 567-4883 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bridge in Phoenix, AZ.
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,…
A dental crown may last a lifetime. But sometimes, even a good-quality crown can break. If your dental crown broke, it is important to find out what happened in order to avoid future problems. Read on to find out why dental crowns break.A dental crown is a restoration that is placed over a tooth to…
Dental crowns are to thank for restoring teeth that are in bad shape. However, once they are placed, it is up to the patient to ensure that the crown does its job.There are a few things that dentists recommend once a dental crown has been placed. These recommendations can be extremely helpful when trying to…
Dental crowns are used in general dentistry very frequently as they are quite versatile. They can solve a number of problems ranging from a simple chip to a severe break. When considering dental restorations, it is worth looking into dental crowns. Outside of being versatile, they are offered in different materials, which can be helpful…
A dental crown may last a lifetime. But sometimes, even a good-quality crown can break. If your dental crown broke, it is important to find out what happened in order to avoid future problems. Read on to find out why dental crowns break.A dental crown is a restoration that is placed over a tooth to…
When a patient has dental implants, follow-up visits are important. Many patients need to have replacement teeth for a variety of reasons. You may have gotten them because you lost several teeth due to a traumatic accident, or you may have been on medication that caused your teeth to deteriorate. Regardless of how you lost your…