Dental Bridges: What Are They and Do I Need One?

Missing teeth affecting your smile, confidence, and overall oral health? Fortunately, dental bridges offer an effective solution to restore missing teeth and maintain proper function. They are a fixed dental restoration that fills the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It helps improve chewing ability, speech, and facial structure while preventing teeth from shifting.

Read this blog to learn about its types, benefits, procedures, and costs to help you determine if this is the right option for you.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

This is a prosthetic device to replace missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. It functions by “bridging” the gap left by missing teeth, restoring both appearance and functionality.

It consists of pontics that replace the missing teeth, abutment teeth, and bridge Material, which can be made from porcelain, metal, ceramic, or a combination of materials.

This is custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking smile.

What Are The Types of Dental Bridges?

Here are the different types of dental bridges, each suited for specific needs and conditions.

Traditional Dental Bridges

Traditional bridges are the most common type. They consist of one or more pontics placed by dental crowns cemented onto adjacent teeth. These bridges are ideal when strong natural teeth are on either side of the missing tooth.

Cantilever Bridges

Cantilever bridges are similar to traditional ones but require support from only one adjacent tooth. They are recommended when you have one natural tooth for anchoring. However, they are not as stable as traditional ones and are typically used in less stressful areas like front teeth.

Maryland Bonded Bridges

In Maryland bridges, the dentist will use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth. This option is less invasive and preserves more natural tooth structure.

Implant-Supported Bridges

Dental implants rather than natural teeth anchor implant-supported ones. They provide superior stability and longevity. This option is ideal for you if you have missing multiple teeth and are seeking a long-term solution.

Do You Need a Dental Bridge?

If you have missing teeth, a dental bridge may be necessary to maintain your oral health and quality of life. Common reasons include:

• One or more missing teeth.
• Difficulty chewing or speaking.
• Teeth shifting due to gaps.
• Changes in facial structure due to missing teeth.

Choose this if you have gaps in your smile, pain, jaw misalignment, or speech difficulties caused by missing teeth.

The Dental Bridge Procedure: What to Expect?

Here are the steps that you must undergo:

• Initial Consultation: The dentist evaluates your oral health and determines if a bridge is suitable.
• Tooth Preparation: Your adjacent teeth are reshaped to accommodate crowns.
• Impressions and Temporary Bridge: A mold is created to create a custom bridge, and a temporary one is placed until then.
• Permanent Bridge Placement: The final bridge is fitted and cemented to the right place to replace your missing teeth.

The entire process usually takes two to three visits over a few weeks. You might experience mild sensitivity or discomfort, but it usually subsides within a few days. Follow proper oral hygiene and attend follow-up appointments.

How to Care for Your Dental Bridge?

To ensure the longevity of your dental bridge, follow these care tips:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
• Use floss or an interdental brush to clean under the bridge.
• Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash.
• Avoid Hard and sticky foods that can damage your oral appliance.
• Excessive coffee or tea can help you prevent tooth-staining.

Dental bridges are a reliable and cost-effective solution for replacing missing teeth, improving both function and aesthetics. They help maintain facial structure, prevent teeth from shifting, and restore confidence in your smile. If you are considering a dental bridge, consult your dentist for a personalized assessment.

Don’t let missing teeth affect your quality of life. Schedule a dental consultation today!