A dental bridge is an oral prosthetic that closes the space left by multiple missing teeth. It has two main components: artificial teeth called pontics and crowns (abutments) placed on the two teeth closest to the space on both sides. The artificial teeth can be made from various materials like gold, silver, and other metals, but porcelain pontics are the most popular since they look just like natural teeth.
The type of dental bridge being installed in the patient’s mouth often dictates how the dentist goes about anchoring it down. Let us take a look at the four main types of dental bridges used in dentistry:
Traditional dental bridges are anchored down on the two teeth closest to the gap left by missing teeth. Crowns are usually placed on these teeth to strengthen them so they can provide more stability for the bridge. Preparing the abutments from crowns requires taking off enamel from their sides. That permanently leaves them altered, so they will always need a restoration to serve as their artificial enamel.
Cantilever bridges are similar to traditional bridges, but there is one significant difference; the pontics are anchored down to only one abutment. These types of bridges are typically recommended when there is only one tooth next to the space left by lost teeth.
These also use two abutments like traditional bridges, but it does not require placing crowns on the teeth closest to the gap. Maryland bridges use a porcelain or metal framework bonded to the backside of the two teeth closest to the gap.
Implant-supported bridges might be recommended for patients who want a complete missing teeth solution. Implants are metal rods that serve as artificial teeth roots, and they help prevent the bone tissue loss that takes place when a tooth is lost.
Implants also happen to be one of the pricier ways to replace missing teeth, so dentists often recommend combining them with other restorations to reduce costs. That way, the patient still gets the bone preserving properties of implants while saving a considerable about of money. To keep things in perspective, the price of a single implant is typically more than the cost of a full set of dentures.
Implant-supported bridges involve inserting implants at the two ends of the space left by missing teeth and placing crowns on them. These crowns then serve as abutments that hold pontics that replace the rest of their missing teeth in place.
Some of the benefits of replacing missing teeth with dental bridges include:
A dental bridge is one of the options you should consider if you have missing teeth. Give us a call or visit our Milwaukee clinic to set up an appointment with our dentist.
Request an appointment here: https://www.esdmke.com or call Eastside Dental at (414) 888-4000 for an appointment in our Milwaukee office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bridges in Milwaukee, WI.
A dental bridge can replace a missing tooth or a row of missing teeth. This dental restoration can prevent you from experiencing the complications of tooth loss. Knowing this treatment better can help you prepare for your next visit. Here are some dental bridge benefits that you must consider.Teeth have roots that anchor them to…
If you have been scheduled to receive dental bridges, it is normal to be worried about how long they will last. With adequate care, dental bridges can survive up to a decade of regular use. However, because people’s dental care habits and diets have significant effects on the lifespan of these devices, it is hard…
Teeth are similar to the rest of the body — with aging, they are susceptible to several health conditions that can hamper their appearance and functionality. People who are dissatisfied with their appearance because of severe tooth decay or tooth loss could consider dental bridges as their preferred method of restoration. The following are details…
There are many options available when it comes to dental care — including crowns and bridges. Below is some information to demystify the similarities and differences between dental crowns and bridges.Think of a dental crown as a hat that protects your head against the sun. It covers the entire tooth and protects it against damage…
Implant supported dentures are becoming a popular tooth replacement option. They are known to replace entire arches of teeth, whether it be the top or bottom. However, because tooth replacement can be complex, many individuals are curious as to how successful the process is for upper teeth. Continue reading to find out! Below is a quick…
Regular dental cleaning maintains or improves your oral health. For example, dentists include routine deep cleaning in long-term treatment plans for patients who live with gum disease. Dental cleaning is also important for smokers who have otherwise healthy teeth. This piece goes over the routine for dental cleaning.Dental practices prefer to offer first-line treatment rather…