Tooth Replacement Options: An Overview of Dental Bridges

Missing teeth can significantly impact your oral health, appearance, and confidence. Fortunately, teeth replacement options like dental bridges can help restore your smile. Dental bridges are prosthetic devices designed to bridge gaps made by one or more missing teeth, repairing the function and appearance of your smile.

An overview of dental bridges

Dental bridges are fixed dental restorations that replace missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to the patient's surrounding natural teeth or dental implants. They commonly contain materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys. Dental bridges provide more durability and natural appearance than teeth replacement options like dentures. By filling the gap left by missing teeth, dental bridges help maintain proper alignment and prevent potential complications, such as bite issues or jawbone deterioration.

Types of dental bridges

General dentists use different types of bridges based on each patient's oral health needs and goals. There are four main types of dental bridges. To determine what type of bridge a patient will need, the dentist will consider the following factors:

• The patient’s age
• How many teeth need replaced
• The size of the gap
• The condition of the patient’s next to the gap
• The presence of natural teeth on both sides of the gap
• The patient’s overall oral health

Traditional dental bridges

Traditional bridges are the most common type of dental bridges. They involve creating crowns for the teeth adjacent to the gap. The adjacent teeth act as anchors for the artificial tooth or teeth. This type of bridge is ideal for individuals with strong natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth.

Maryland bridges

Maryland bridges, also known as resin-bonded bridges, use a metal or porcelain framework (wings) bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth. This option is less invasive because it does not require the adjacent teeth for support. Unfortunately, these appliances are typically only used for front teeth, as they are not strong enough to withstand daily chewing and biting functions.

Cantilever dental bridges

Cantilever bridges are effective when there is only one natural tooth available for support. These are less common due to the increased risk of stress on the supporting tooth. However, it is an effective option for those missing a single front tooth. It also preserves more of the natural structure of the supporting teeth.

Implant-supported bridges

An implant-supported bridge is similar to a traditional bridge. Implant-supported bridges rely on dental implants for stability instead of natural teeth. However, they rely on dental implants for stability instead of natural teeth, requiring a more extensive healing process. This type is ideal for replacing multiple missing teeth and offers superior strength and durability. They also reduce the risk of jawbone deterioration, as the artificial roots stimulate the bone similarly to natural teeth.

The benefits of dental bridges

Dental bridges offer a variety of benefits. They can:

• Improve the patient’s chewing and speaking functions
• Fill gaps and improve the appearance of the patient’s smile
• Prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into the empty space left by the missing tooth
• Preserve the patient’s natural facial structure

Caring for dental bridges

In order to protect the longevity of dental bridges, people need to maintain proper oral hygiene. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings help prevent decay and gum disease around the supporting teeth. General dentists may also recommend specific cleaning tools like floss threaders or water flossers to thoroughly clean around and under the dental bridge.