What is a dental bridge?
There are different kinds of dental bridges, but they all serve the same purpose. Acquiring dental bridges near you can be used to repair missing teeth and restore the functionality of your mouth.
Bridges fill in the gaps left by one or more lost teeth. They keep the teeth from moving and restore the functionality of your mouth. They help keep your teeth healthy, your face looking good, and your general health in good shape. As we read this, we will learn about the different types of dental bridges.
Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional Bridges:
The most common type is the traditional dental bridge, which is used when healthy teeth are present on both sides of the gap where a tooth used to be. Crowns are placed on the teeth next to the bridge to connect one or more fake teeth, called pontics, to the bridge.
Advantages:
- Improve the appearance by filling in the gaps caused by missing teeth.
- Restored functionality.
- Traditional bridges are less expensive than implant-supported bridges.
- Prevents shifting of the teeth.
Things to consider:
- The teeth next to the caps need to be prepared so they can fit.
- You may need to make more than one trip to the dentist for preparation and fitting.
Cantilever Bridges:
It’s like a regular bridge, but a dental crown only supports one side of the gap instead of both. This is called a cantilever bridge. They are used when there is only one supporting natural tooth around the gap.
Advantages:
- They are easy to place.
- They are less invasive.
- They look natural.
- It brings back utility and looks.
Things to consider:
- Compared to regular bridges, it puts more stress on the tooth that holds the bridge in place.
- They aren’t for everyone.
- Damage may occur.
- It is only suited for replacing teeth that experience less pressure during chewing.
Maryland Bridges:
Maryland bridges, which are also called resin-bonded bridges, are a more traditional way to build a bridge. They are made up of a metal or ceramic frame that is glued to the backs of teeth next to it with resin.
Advantages:
- Adjacent teeth don’t need to be changed much.
- Non-invasive and low-risk
- Procedure that is quick and doesn’t hurt.
- A choice that saves money.
Things to consider:
- It is only suitable for places where people chew a little.
- It might not last as long as regular bridges.
- If you don’t clean them right, they can cause tooth damage.
- It is not suitable if you are missing more than two teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridges:
People think that implant-supported bridges are the best way to fix missing teeth. They involve surgery to insert tooth implants into the jawbone, which hold the bridge in place securely.
Advantages:
- It looks and works more like natural teeth.
- Holds back bone loss in the jaw.
- Provides better stability and longevity.
Things to consider:
- Implant placement requires surgery.
- Treatment takes longer than with other bridge choices.
- The cost of the original investment is higher.
Hybrid Dental Bridges:
A hybrid bridge is made of several materials and is used to address the different issues of your teeth.
Advantages:
- It can combine the strength of implants with the ease of use of a bridge.
- Look and feel like natural teeth.
- Does not covers the roof.
- It can be used to replace several lost teeth in a row.
Things to consider:
- It needs enough bone density to fit the implant.
- Causing some discomfort.
- more difficult to clean.
- It is more expensive to build at first than regular bridges.
There are several types and advantages to getting a dental bridge, each having its pros and cons.
Talk to your dentist to determine which option is best for you based on your needs, budget, and oral health. If you make the right choice, you can have a beautiful smile for many years.
Contact our team for dental bridges today!
We know that every smile is different, and we’re here to meet your specific needs. As a skilled dentist in Forest Lake, we are committed to giving you individualized care that keeps your teeth in great shape. We offer more than just normal treatments; we tailor our services to your exact needs.
We care about your smile at Forest Lake Dental. Make an appointment right now to begin your journey to a healthier, happier you! Because great care is the first step to a confident smile.