Choose the Right Dental Bridge Practice

When faced with tooth loss, the next step is to identify the proper restorative treatment. There are three major procedures to consider – dental implants, dentures, and dental bridges. Your oral condition and the expected results are some of the key considerations to keep in mind when choosing a restorative treatment.

If you have lost one or a few teeth, dental implants and bridges offer the best solutions. This article will focus on dental bridges and how they can restore your oral appearance and functionality.  

What are Dental Bridges?

A bridge is a restorative treatment that replaces one or multiple missing teeth. The treatment involves placing an artificial tooth on the empty socket and supporting it with frameworks or dental crowns attached to the adjacent teeth. Depending on how many teeth are missing, a single bridge can replace up to three missing teeth.  

During the dental bridge treatment, tooth shaping on the supporting teeth is required for the dental crown to fit well. Compared to dentures, bridges offer a more stable, lasting, and convenient option for missing teeth. During the treatment, the dentist numbs the area so the procedure will be relatively painless. No surgery is involved for this procedure.  

Why is a Dental Bridge Necessary?

When you’re missing a tooth, several things can go wrong. These include:

• Jawbone loss. 
• Facial sagging. 
• Impaired ability to speak. 
• Shifting of the adjacent teeth. 
• Reduced self-confidence. 
• Reduced bite function. 

By replacing a lost tooth with a bridge, you get to enjoy the following benefits:

• Restored ability to chew and speak properly. 
• Restored self-esteem and confidence, especially for people in the corporate industry. 
• Improved oral and facial appearance. 
• Improved bite function. 
• Keeps the adjacent teeth in position. 
• Improved oral hygiene and health. 

Types of Dental Bridges

• Traditional Bridges 

It’s probably the most popular type of dental bridge for a single tooth replacement. With this treatment, the bridge consists of an artificial tooth supported with crowns fitted over the neighboring teeth on both sides of the empty socket. The adjacent teeth that hold the bridge together are known as abutment teeth.  

To qualify for traditional bridges, you must have healthy teeth on both sides of the gap. Teeth shaping on the abutment teeth is necessary for the crowns to fit correctly. A traditional bridge is permanent and doesn’t require to be removed when sleeping or cleaning like it is with dentures.  

• Cantilever Bridges 

These bridges are similar to traditional bridges. The only difference is that they require one abutment tooth. The artificial tooth is placed on the empty socket and supported by a crown attached to one side of the gap.

Compared to a traditional bridge, this bridge offers less stability, and it’s only recommended if you only have healthy teeth on one side of the missing tooth. On the positive side, only one of your natural teeth will be trimmed down, leaving the rest of the teeth intact.  

• Maryland Bridges 

For these bridges, the artificial tooth is supported by frameworks of metal or porcelain. Compared to other bridges, Maryland bridges require fewer appointments to the dental office because no tooth shaping is required. This procedure is recommended if the patient doesn’t have healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth or teeth. The healing and recovery time for this treatment is quick.

• Implant-Supported Bridge

If you have multiple gaps, implant-supported bridges might be a good option for you. For this procedure, no tooth shaping is required. The bridge is fixed into the jawbone surgically. Compared to other bridges, these bridges require more healing time.  

Choosing the right dental bridge for your condition will depend on factors such as:

• Your overall oral health. 
• Number of missing teeth. 
• Number of healthy teeth. 
• The health of your gums. 
• The desired results.

For best results, try to consult with your dentist to determine which type of bridge is right for your condition.  

Taking Care of Your Bridge

Dental bridge care is easy and straightforward. Use these tips:

• Floss regularly. 
• Brush at least twice a day. 
• Avoid chewing hard and sticky foods. 
• Avoid sugary foods and drinks. 
• Eat healthier and hydrate well. 
• Schedule frequent visits to the dentist for a check-up and professional cleaning.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Do you need help identifying the right type of bridge for your condition? Contact Belknap Dental Associates for professional guidance.