What are Dental Bridges: Types, Advantages & Aftercare Tips
What are Dental Bridges?
Teeth bridges are a common way to replace missing teeth. They are made up of two or more crowns attached to adjacent teeth, known as abutment teeth. There are several different dental bridges like porcelain, metal, and porcelain-fused-to-metal, each with its benefits and drawbacks. Knowing which type is ideal is crucial before getting dental bridges.
What are the Types of Dental Bridges?
Traditional Dental Bridges
A tooth bridge is a fixed dental prosthesis that replaces one or more missing teeth by closing the gap between two adjacent teeth. The two neighboring teeth act as abutments and support the false tooth or teeth in the middle (called a pontic).
Cantilever Dental Bridges
A cantilever dental bridge is supported by one or more teeth on one side and is often used when you have only one side of the gap left by a missing tooth or teeth. Cantilever bridges are usually made of metal, porcelain, or a combination. They are attached to the natural teeth with metal wings or brackets. Cantilever bridges are not as durable or strong as traditional dental bridges but are less likely to damage adjacent teeth.
Maryland Dental Bridges
Maryland dental bridges also need two teeth for support. But instead of crowns, the bridges use a porcelain or metal framework. The natural teeth support bridges on either side of the gap left by the missing tooth or dental implants.
Implant-supported Dental Bridges
An implant-supported dental bridge is a type of dental bridge that is supported by one or more dental implants. Unlike a traditional dental bridge supported by the surrounding teeth, an implant-supported dental bridge is much more stable and durable. However, our dentist in Billerica, MA 01821 recommends these bridges if you have sufficient bone support. If you’re considering a dental bridge, be sure to ask a tooth bridge dentist near you if an implant-supported dental bridge is an ideal option.
What are the Benefits of Dental Bridges?
Teeth bridges offer significant benefits like:
- They replace a missing tooth. Gaps between the teeth affect your smile, and getting a bridge will help you to eat and speak comfortably again!
- They improve your smile. Dental bridges are very popular because they provide protection for your teeth and gums by supporting nearby teeth in case one gets knocked out of alignment while eating or talking.
- The bridges prevent the shifting of teeth. Having spaces between the gums cause the surrounding teeth to shift to the available area. This will cause the teeth to become misaligned and can weaken the jaw. While the bridges do not stop bone deterioration as effectively as the implants, they can prevent the teeth from shifting.
- Improve speech intelligibility by replacing missing teeth with crowns that create more room for airways within the mouth.
- Help prevent tooth decay because, without them, there’d be less food debris trapped between roots leading directly into gums, making it easier for bacteria such as plaque/tartar/cavities, etc., to thrive so easily!
Aftercare Tips for Maintaining Dental Bridges
Bridges can last many years, but they will eventually need to be replaced. The exact lifespan of a dental bridge will depend on several factors, including the materials used and how it is cared for. With proper care, a teeth bridge can last many years and provide a natural-looking and functional replacement for a missing tooth.
- Brush and floss your teeth daily.
- Don’t chew on hard objects, or you could chip or crack your bridge
- Don’t smoke cigarettes as this will affect the gums and is harmful to the teeth
- Visit a dentist for regular cleaning checkups and fluoride treatment to keep the teeth underneath clean and stop plaque accumulation
Visit a Tooth Bridge Dentist Near You
Teeth bridges are an excellent option for replacing missing teeth and can improve your smile. They are also ideal options for people who have had dental work done in the past and need to replace their bridge or fix a gap due to gum disease or injury. Call us or make an appointment with One Dental Care for more information about dental bridges in Billerica, MA, and what you can expect.