Dental Bridge: Improving the Health and Appearance of Your Smile

A dental bridge is a popular tooth replacement option for those missing one or several teeth. Missing teeth can cause problems that go beyond the aesthetic. Therefore, patients should replace teeth promptly to preserve the health and appearance of their smile. Fortunately, a dental bridge is an effective and natural-looking way to do that.

Types of dental bridges

A dental bridge can be made from metal, porcelain, composite resin, or a combination of materials and come in several forms. For example, the traditional dental bridge consists of a false tooth or pontic, with a dental crown attached to either side. The dental crowns attach to the natural teeth on either side of the space. These natural teeth act as abutments, and the pontic acts as a bridge between them, filling the space left by the missing tooth. Other variations on the dental bridge include the following:

Cantilever bridge

This is like a traditional bridge, but there is only a crown on one side of the pontic. Dentists may recommend this type when only one natural tooth is available as an abutment. However, it is important to note this type of bridge may not be as strong as other bridges.

Maryland bridge

Also known as a resin-bonded bridge, the Maryland bridge attaches to the abutment teeth via metal wings attached to the back of the abutment teeth. This is a popular choice for replacing front teeth. However, resin-bonded bridges are not strong enough to endure the chewing forces required for molars.

Implant-supported bridge

This bridge is similar to a traditional bridge. However, the crowns are not cemented over the patient's natural teeth. Instead, dental implants act as abutments. Though this implant involves a longer process, including dental implant surgery, these bridges are strong and ideal for patients missing three or more teeth in a row.

Benefits of a dental bridge

Versatility and flexibility

With such a wide variety of dental bridges, dentists can easily find an option that works for most patients. The dentist can adjust the type and material to fit the patient's needs. Even patients who do not have natural teeth to act as abutments can still qualify for a dental bridge.

Restores smile’s natural appearance

Many patients consider this the most important benefit of getting a dental bridge. They no longer have to feel self-conscious about showing spaces in their teeth when they smile. In addition, a dental bridge can be designed to blend right in with the patient's natural teeth, so no one but the patient or their dentist knows they are replacement teeth.

Restored oral health and function

When teeth go missing, other teeth can shift out of place to fill the empty space, which can affect the alignment and function of the smile. A dental bridge helps to prevent this and maintain the smile's alignment, so it is ideal for chewing, speaking, and maintaining good oral hygiene. Also, because the bridge is fixed in place, it does not have to be removed for cleaning, and patients can chew with it just as if it were their natural teeth.