Denta Cure

bridges

What is a dental bridge?

Dental bridges serve to replace missing teeth, whether it's a single tooth or a series of missing teeth.

Functioning as a literal "bridge" in your smile, custom bridges crafted by dentists seamlessly blend in with the shade of your natural teeth.

A dental bridge comprises different components:

Abutments: These are the supportive structures for your dental bridge. While often referring to natural teeth, abutments can also denote small connector posts utilized in dental implant-supported bridges.
Pontics: These are the artificial or false teeth that fill the gap created by missing teeth.

The composition of your bridge, whether it includes one or more abutments and one or more pontics, depends on your specific situation and the type of bridge you receive.

Types of dental bridges

Dentists offer various types of bridges to cater to individual oral health needs:

Traditional Dental Bridge: The most common type, consisting of dental crowns on both ends and artificial teeth (pontics) in between. These crowns are bonded to healthy natural teeth (abutments) adjacent to the gap.
Cantilever Dental Bridge: Similar to a traditional bridge but with a crown on only one end. It's used when natural teeth are present on one side of the gap. However, due to its design, cantilever bridges are not as robust as traditional ones.
Maryland Dental Bridge: Also known as a resin-bonded bridge, this type utilizes metal wings instead of crowns to secure the bridge. The wings are bonded to the backs of neighboring teeth. Maryland bridges are often used for replacing front teeth but may not withstand the chewing forces of posterior teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridge: Similar to a traditional bridge, but it rests on dental implants instead of natural teeth. Dental implants act as artificial tooth roots, supporting the bridge. Before attaching the bridge, implants need to integrate with the jawbone, a process taking several months. Implant-supported bridges are suitable for replacing three or more missing teeth in a row.

When determining the appropriate type of bridge for you, your dentist will take several factors into account:

Age: Dentists usually refrain from placing bridges in children.
Number of missing teeth: Assessing how many teeth need replacement.
Size of the gap: Considering the extent of the space between teeth.
Condition of neighboring teeth: Evaluating the health and stability of adjacent teeth.
Presence of natural teeth: Determining if natural teeth are present on both sides of the gap.
Overall oral health: Taking into consideration the health of your teeth and gums.
Personal preferences: Considering any specific preferences or concerns you may have.