Dental bridges are a type of permanent dental appliance that aims to replace a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. This type of fixture is put in place to bridge the gap where the missing tooth used to be. But what type of dental bridge is best for you?
However, many patients are unaware that there are many different kinds of dental bridges available. Knowing which one would work best for you can help you ensure that your treatment is safe and effective when you receive it.
If you think you might benefit from a dental bridge installation, take a look at this guide, which describes the available kinds.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is an artificial tooth that is placed in the mouth to replace a broken or missing tooth. Dental bridges can be composed of several different materials and remain a permanent part of a patient’s mouth once it is installed. The artificial tooth or teeth in a dental bridge is known as a pontic.
What Type of Dental Bridge Is Best for You?
There are several different types of dental bridges available. Which one you select will be based on some of the specifics of your situation with missing teeth. Dental bridges can be composed of several different materials, including porcelain, metal, gold, and other ceramics. The primary types of dental bridges are listed below.
Traditional Fixed Bridges
Traditional fixed bridges are the most common type of dental bridge. These bridges include crowns that are placed on either side of the installed pontic. These dental bridges represent the vast majority of dental bridges that are installed. These dental bridges work well when the patient has natural teeth on either side of the abutment that is installed.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Implant-supported dental bridges use dental implants to support the dental bridge rather than dental crowns or artificial frameworks. In this type of installation, one implant is surgically placed for each missing tooth.
Implant-supported dental bridges are considered to be the most stable type of dental bridge. The procedure is usually executed through two separate surgeries, one of which embeds the implant in the jaw, and the other places the bridge. This type of dental bridge is preferred for those who may need extra support to keep the bridge in place due to other dental complications.
Cantilever Bridges
Cantilever bridges are similar to traditional fixed bridges but are held in place by only a single dental crown that is cemented to a single abutment tooth rather than multiple crowns anchored to multiple teeth. These types of dental bridges can prove useful for those who may have more missing teeth in their mouth, as you only need one natural tooth to be present to install a cantilever bridge.
Resin-Bonded Bridges
Resin-bonded bridges, also known as a Maryland bridge, employ two natural abutment teeth on either side to be properly installed. However, the difference between a Maryland bridge and a resin-bonded bridge is that the former utilizes a metal or porcelain framework that is bonded to the back of the abutment teeth to keep the bridge in place. This type of bridge is often used to replace front teeth.
Who Makes a Good Candidate for Dental Bridge Installation?
Most candidates who are interested in receiving a dental bridge should find themselves qualified to do so. However, there are some qualities that your dentist will look for to ensure that you are a good candidate for receiving this type of treatment:
- Being of good overall health
- Having no serious chronic health issues
- Having good overall oral health
- Having healthy natural teeth that can be used as abutments for the bridge
- Understanding the nature and limitations of this type of procedure
Making the most out of your procedure will include maintaining proper oral health before and after your procedure. Dental bridges need to be brushed and flossed just like normal teeth, and they will suffer if proper oral hygiene is not performed. In addition, regular dental checkups with your dentist will ensure that you stay informed on the general level of health of your dental bridge and natural teeth.
Your Friend in Dentistry
iSmiles Long Beach is one of the best resources in Southern California for individuals who are interested in receiving the best treatment available for their dental concerns. If you’re interested in discussing an upcoming dental bridge treatment with one of our dentists, contact us today to set up an appointment.
