Dental Bridges
Explained

Dental bridges are fixed prosthetics that replace missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth (pontics) to adjacent natural teeth or implants. They restore function and aesthetics, preventing issues like teeth shifting or facial sagging.

3.Maryland dental bridge. A Maryland bridge (or resin-bonded bridge) uses metal wings instead of crowns to secure your bridge. A dentist bonds the wings to the backs of your neighboring teeth to hold your bridge in place. Dentists typically use Maryland bridges to replace front teeth. These appliances aren’t strong enough to withstand the chewing forces of back teeth.

4.Implant-supported bridge. An implant-supported bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, but it rests atop dental implants instead of natural teeth. Dental implants are small threaded posts that replace missing teeth roots. Before attaching a bridge to dental implants, your implants must fully integrate (fuse) with your jawbone. This process takes three to six months on average, but it can take longer depending on your situation. Dentists can use implant-supported bridges when you have three or more missing teeth in a row.

What Exactly are
Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are prosthetic devices designed to replace one or more missing teeth. They work by “bridging” the gap left by the missing teeth, using artificial teeth called pontics that are anchored to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. This restores both the function (like chewing and speaking) and the appearance of your smile, while also preventing remaining teeth from shifting out of place.

The Dental Bridge Procedure

The process involves:

Consultation and Treatment Planning: The dentist will assess your oral health, discuss your options, and create a plan for your bridge.
Preparation of Abutment Teeth: The teeth adjacent to the gap are reshaped to accommodate the crowns that will support the bridge. This may involve removing some enamel.
Taking Impressions: Impressions are taken of the prepared teeth and the surrounding area to create a custom bridge.
Temporary Bridge: While the permanent bridge is being fabricated, a temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain your smile.
Bridge Fabrication: The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where a bridge is created.
Fitting the Permanent Bridge: The dentist will fit the permanent bridge, making adjustments as needed to ensure a comfortable and natural fit.
Cementing the Bridge: Once the fit is perfect, the bridge is cemented into place.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Benefits include:

Improved Chewing and Speaking:
Bridges help restore the ability to chew and speak properly by filling in the gap created by the missing tooth. This allows for a more comfortable and confident eating and speaking experience.
Enhanced Appearance:
Missing teeth can impact the appearance of your smile and facial structure. Bridges fill the gap, restoring a natural-looking smile and helping maintain the natural shape of your face.
Preventing Tooth Shifting:
The space created by a missing tooth can cause neighboring teeth to shift out of alignment. Bridges prevent this, helping to maintain the proper alignment of your teeth and bite.
Supporting Facial Structure:
Missing teeth can lead to bone loss in the jaw, which can cause the face to droop or change shape. Bridges help maintain the shape of your face by supporting the surrounding teeth and bone.
Cost-Effective:
Bridges are generally less expensive than dental implants, making them a more affordable option for replacing missing teeth.
Improved Oral Hygiene:
While bridges can sometimes increase the risk of decay around the crowns if not properly maintained, they also help prevent the accumulation of bacteria in the gap where the tooth was missing, reducing the risk of further dental issues.
Confidence Boost:
A full, healthy smile can significantly improve your confidence. Bridges can help restore that confidence by filling in the gap and improving your appearance.