Bridges
A dental bridge is a common dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth, effectively “bridging” the gap left by the missing teeth. This prosthetic device is anchored to the natural teeth or dental implants surrounding the empty space, known as abutment teeth. The false teeth, called pontics, are crafted from materials like porcelain, ceramic, gold, or alloys to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
There are four main types of dental bridges:
- Traditional Bridges: These are the most common type and involve creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between. They are typically used when there are natural teeth on both sides of the gap.
- Cantilever Bridges: These are used when there is only one adjacent tooth next to the gap. However, they are less common and not recommended for areas of the mouth that are subject to significant stress.
- Maryland Bridges: Also known as resin-bonded bridges, these use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. They are often used to replace front teeth and require less preparation of the adjacent teeth.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: These are used when more than one tooth is missing. Instead of being supported by crowns or frameworks, they are supported by dental implants. This type is considered the most stable and durable but requires multiple surgeries and a longer treatment time.
Dental bridges offer several benefits.
They restore your smile, help maintain the shape of your face, and distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth. They also prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
The cost of a dental bridge varies depending on the type, materials used, and the complexity of the placement. After a thorough assessment, one of our dentists will be able to conference with you on the type of bridge you require and provide a cost estimate for you and your insurance company.
Overall, dental bridges are a reliable solution for missing teeth, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits.
There are four main types of dental bridges:
- Traditional Bridges: These are the most common type and involve creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between. They are typically used when there are natural teeth on both sides of the gap.
- Cantilever Bridges: These are used when there is only one adjacent tooth next to the gap. However, they are less common and not recommended for areas of the mouth that are subject to significant stress.
- Maryland Bridges: Also known as resin-bonded bridges, these use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. They are often used to replace front teeth and require less preparation of the adjacent teeth.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: These are used when more than one tooth is missing. Instead of being supported by crowns or frameworks, they are supported by dental implants. This type is considered the most stable and durable but requires multiple surgeries and a longer treatment time.
Dental bridges offer several benefits.
They restore your smile, help maintain the shape of your face, and distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth. They also prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
The cost of a dental bridge varies depending on the type, materials used, and the complexity of the placement. After a thorough assessment, one of our dentists will be able to conference with you on the type of bridge you require and provide a cost estimate for you and your insurance company.
