Choose The Best Dental Bridge Restoration For You

As the name suggests, a dental bridge restoration is fixed replacement that closes the gap after tooth loss. Bridges are directly cemented into the neighboring teeth or implants.

A dental bridge is composed of the abutment teeth and a false tooth or pontic. The abutment teeth are on each side of the gap and they hold the pontic in place. In the past, these teeth bridges were made from either gold or silver. Due to their dark appearance which affects that patient’s smile, other materials have been used. Today, composite resin and porcelain materials are widely used since their color matches with the natural teeth.

One drawback of bridges is that they need the support of natural teeth or implants. Having said this, the natural teeth are covered with dental crowns before the bridges are attached to them. On one hand, if the patient needs a full arch restoration, full bridge implants are the most ideal option for him.

Four types of dental bridge restoration

Conventional tooth bridge

A conventional dental bridge restoration has a filler tooth in between the natural teeth on each opposing side. To accomplish this, the dentist places dental crowns on top of the existing teeth and position the pontic in the middle. Also, he reshapes the crowns to imitate the appearance of a real tooth. Dentists use tooth-colored materials such as porcelain or ceramic for this type of restoration. Unlike full bridge implants that replace a complete upper or lower teeth, this option is commonly used for single tooth replacement.

Cantilever dental bridge restoration

A cantilever bridge is used when only one adjacent tooth is available to support the restoration. This dental case scenario is common in the back tooth; hence, it needs to withstand chewing pressure. The dentist needs to plan out carefully how to go about its placement to ensure its stability. However, he might opt for an implant if the neighboring tooth is unhealthy to hold a bridge in place.

Implant-supported bridge

If the patient lost many teeth, implants are the most ideal option for a durable dental restoration. The oral surgeon places two or three dental implants to secure the dental bridge restoration in place. One drawback of this option is the longer healing period after placing implants into the patient’s jawbone through surgery. Yet, it’s the most rewarding because implants are highly durable.

Maryland dental bridge

This is a resin-bonded bridge that is typically used to replace missing front teeth. The difference with this type of restoration is the use of a metal framework to support the dental bridge. The metal wing or framework is attached at the back of the neighboring teeth while the pontic is held in the middle.

Knowing the different types of dental bridges helps you discover which of these suits you best. Whether you need a traditional dental bridge or full bridge implants, the best time to replace your missing teeth is now. Talk to your dentist about dental bridges and other restorative treatment options.

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About DentistryEd

Sharky Liu is the founder and CEO of DentistFind, a results-driven dental marketing platform and marketing service that applies an analytical and data-based approach to increase new patient acquisition for dental practices.

Please Read Disclaimer

Note: This information is for general education purposes only. It is not to be used as a substitute for medical advice from your eye doctor or refractive surgeon.

Choose The Best Dental Bridge Restoration For You