What is a Dental Bridge?
Dentists often recommend a dental bridge to fill the gap if you have one or more missing teeth. A dental bridge is a permanent, artificial tooth that fills the gap in your teeth.
These false teeth are also called pontics, and they function by being anchored by the teeth on either side of the gap, called the abutment teeth. With the help of a dental bridge, your teeth will appear better, but you’ll also gain functionality. Using a dental bridge to fill a gap in your teeth can improve your speech and your bite, helping ease pain and improve your ability to maintain good dental hygiene.
There are four main types of dental bridges, each with unique use and benefits.
Traditional Fixed Dental Bridge
A traditional fixed bridge is the most common type of dental bridge used. This dental bridge consists of a pontic being held in place by a crown on the teeth of either side of the false tooth. A tooth on both sides of the pontic is required for this dental bridge to anchor, which is why some people will turn to other solutions in specific scenarios.
Cantilever Dental Bridge
The cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional fixed bridge, but the bridge is fixed to only one abutment, as opposed to an abutment on both sides. This can be beneficial if only a tooth on one side of the bridge is available to attach to. However, this dental bridge is rarely used.
Maryland Dental Bridge or Resin-Bonded Bridge
A Maryland dental or resin-bonded bridge also uses two abutments on either pontic side. A Maryland bridge is unique because it uses metal or porcelain anchors on the back side of the abutments rather than crowns on the abutments.
Because a Maryland bridge anchors to the back of the abutments, this is a popular option for those missing front teeth, as the Maryland bridge lends itself to a better appearance.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridge
The implant-supported dental bridge uses an implant as the abutment rather than a natural tooth. This typically takes two office visits with the Oral Surgeon to have the implants and healing caps placed. Then after 4-5 months of healing, there would be two more office visits at The Landing Dental Spa for the fabrication and insertion of the bridge.
While all dental bridges are considered permanent solutions, this type of bridge is considered the most reliable and stable system. However, this comes at a cost, and implant-supported bridges are usually much more expensive than other options.
To get a broader overview of dental bridges, check out our blog on What to Know About Dental Bridges: Uses, Types, Benefits, and Care.
Dental Bridges | The Landing Dental Spa
If you have a missing tooth or teeth, a dental bridge might be the right solution to bring confidence back into your smile and avoid potential dental problems down the road. At The Landing Dental Spa, we accommodate all our patients with full-service cosmetic and family dentistry. If you have questions about whether dental bridges suit you, our dental staff will help you find the best treatment option based on your oral care needs and goals. We can also discuss payment plans for dental bridges. If you would like to make an appointment with us, please call us at 304-594-2200 or use our online contact form.
We look forward to hearing from you!
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