Dental Bridges
What Are Dental Bridges?
A bridge may be used to replace missing teeth, help maintain the shape of your face, and alleviate stress on your bite. A bridge replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth, looks great, and literally bridges the gap where one or more teeth may have been. Your bridge can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials and is bonded onto surrounding teeth for support.
Types of Bridges
There are four types of dental bridges:
Traditional Bridges
Traditional bridges are the most common type of. They are comprised of ceramic, porcelain fused to metal, or all metal. A dental crown is held in place on each side by these bridges.
Traditional bridge procedures are done by the dentist shaping and filing the teeth next to the fake tooth.
Traditional bridges are most commonly used to repair back teeth, such as premolars and molars.
Cantilever Bridges
Cantilever bridges are like traditional bridges because they are made of porcelain which is fused with metal. However, they are different because a patient must have a natural tooth next to the missing tooth.
A dental crown is placed over the unhealthy tooth on either side. This method is most commonly used to replace front teeth. Cantilever bridges are not strong enough to support molars.
Maryland Bridges
Maryland bridges are less invasive than traditional dental bridges. These bridges use a fake tooth and are supported by a metal framework. They are bonded to adjacent teeth, keeping the bridge stable. They use porcelain to create a more natural look, matching the color of natural teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Implant-supported bridges are supported by dental implants, instead of dental crowns or metal frameworks. These bridges are used to restore back teeth. Implant bridges are most useful for patients who have at least three missing teeth (in the back of the mouth) in a row.
What
The success of any bridge depends on its foundation: the other teeth, gums, or bone to which it is attached. Therefore, it’s very important to keep your existing teeth, gums, and jaw healthy and strong.
