A dental bridge is a prosthesis that spans the gap between two teeth. Bridges are used to secure prosthetic teeth in place by cementing a crown on both sides of the missing tooth.
A dental bridge is one of the greatest non-invasive solutions to replace a single tooth or many missing teeth, if you have one or more missing teeth. However, you should see your dentist to have your mouth evaluated to determine which type of dental bridge you should use to replace your missing tooth.
Dental bridges, like most prosthetic dental devices, are built out of a wide variety of materials. Porcelain and ceramic bridges are the most popular because they closely resemble real teeth and can be color-matched, making them difficult to detect.
Metal alloy bridges are the least expensive alternative, but they are not as popular as porcelain or ceramic bridges because they do not appear natural and are easily seen.
Different types of dental bridges
Traditional bridge
This is the most popular type of dental bridge . When you have natural teeth on both sides of the gap where your tooth used to be, this bridge is used. Crowns are placed on the teeth that are next to the gap left by the missing tooth to secure the prosthetic tooth in place.
Traditional dental bridges can last for years before needing to be rebuilt.
Maryland bridge
When patients do not want dental crowns to hold the prosthetic tooth in place, this form of dental bridge is a conservative alternative to a standard bridge. A metal or porcelain framework is bonded to the back of the surrounding teeth during the treatment.
Because the prosthetic tooth is held in place by a frame, it is less durable than a standard bridge, which uses cement to hold the tooth in place.
Cantilever Bridge
A cantilever bridge, like a standard dental bridge, uses cement to hold the artificial tooth in place. However in this approach, one of the surrounding teeth is used to hold the artificial tooth in place.
Implant-supported Bridge
Implant supported bridges can be used to replace numerous missing teeth at once, and have become popular for restoring missing teeth. Your dentist will replace your lost tooth with a dental implant, which will keep the bridge in place instead of crowns or frames.
Since it is the most durable type of dental bridge, this operation is quite popular. This is because the implants are linked to your jaw bone and can last a lifetime if properly cared for. You won't have to worry about the bridge failing or your artificial teeth sliding out of position.
Conclusion
Dental bridges serve to restore your smile and confidence by replacing lost or damaged teeth. If you have lost teeth and wish to replace them, talk to your dentist about which dental bridge is the best option for you.