Dental bridges, as the name suggests, bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. A bridge is made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth/teeth in between. These false teeth, known as pentices, can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials.
This educational blog explores what dental bridges are, how they work, and why they might be the right choice for you.
Why Consider a Dental Bridge?
- Functional improvement: bridges restore your ability to chew and speak properly.
- Aesthetic enhancement: they maintain the shape of your face and restore your smile.
- Distributing forces: bridges help distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth.
- Preventing movement: they prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
Types of Dental Bridges
- Traditional bridges: involves creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontin in between. The most common type of bridge.
- Cantilever bridges: used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth.
- Maryland bonded bridges: made of porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal or porcelain framework.
The Procedure
Getting a dental bridge typically involves two or more visits to the dentist. The process includes:
- Preparing the anchoring teeth for crowns
- Making impressions of the teeth to create a custom bridge
- Fitting a temporary bridge to protect exposed teeth and gums.
- On the second visit, removing the temporary bridge and fitting the new permanent bridge, followed by necessary adjustments.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, dental bridges can last many years. Key care tips include:
- Brushing and flossing twice daily.
- Regular dental cleanings and check-ups.
- Avoiding chewing hard foods, ice, or other hard objects.
Conclusion
Dental bridges are an effective and reliable solution for missing teeth, helping you regain both functionality and confidence in your smile. If you're considering a dental bridge, consult with your dentist to determine the best type for your specific needs. Remember, a dental bridge not only fills the gap in your smile but also helps maintain your oral health and overall well-being.
