Missing teeth can be really inconvenient. Several missing teeth can lead to a reduction in the intake of food, and thereby, lead to the weakening of the body. So, it is always advisable to get replacements for the missing teeth. There are three methods of solution for this problem: Dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants. Dental bridges include shaping the neighboring natural teeth of the missing teeth space to fit a cap over it and create a bridge supporting the artificial teeth.
Let us learn about the dental bridge in brief.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is an artificially created prosthetic device that is used to fill the gap between your missing teeth. It is mounted on top of a patient’s existing teeth and is moulded into the shape. Therefore, it bridges the gap created between your teeth and gives a natural-looking smile.
Generally, dental bridges are made of porcelain and sometimes metal or ceramic that helps to give the teeth a natural look. The bridge is attached to the teeth on either side of the gap. Dental bridges are the best solution for filling gaps and creating a natural-looking smile.
What Happens During a Dental Bridge Procedure?
The following is the simple process used by all dental clinics:
- The dentist examines the mouth for any tooth decay or gum disease. If they find any issues, they treat them first. They may take an x-ray and use equipment to take measurements of the teeth and mouth.
- To prepare for a dental bridge, the dentist files down two healthy teeth on either side of the gap to make a mould out of it. This mould is then used for making the dental bridge.
- During this process, you are given a temporary bridge while waiting for your permanent bridge to be ready. Once your permanent bridge is ready, this temporary bridge will be removed.
- The permanent bridge is put in place when ready and usually attached to the surrounding healthy teeth with dental cement.
What Are the Different Types of Dental Bridges Available?
There are three main types of dental bridges:
- Traditional Bridges
This is one of the most commonly used dental bridges. Traditional bridges are made out of porcelain or sometimes fused with metal or ceramic. In this type, a crown is created for the tooth on any one side of the gap and an imitation tooth in the center.
- Cantilever Bridges
Cantilever bridges are used when their adjacent teeth are on only one side of the missing tooth. Generally, it’s suitable for solving the missing tooth problem in the back of the mouth.
- Resin-Bonded Bridges or Maryland Bridges
As the name suggests, resin-bonded bridges are made of porcelain, plastic teeth or porcelain fused with metal. The gums are supported with metal or porcelain frameworks. The metal or porcelain wings that are protruding are bonded to the existing teeth.
Benefits of a Dental Bridge:
- Replacement for Real Teeth
You can’t put a price tag on a smile that is both beautiful and healthy. Many patients feel more confident after dental bridge procedures. A dental bridge not only restores the function of the lost tooth but also enhances the shape and color of the artificial tooth. An experienced dentist will help create an appealing dental restoration that blends in with the rest of the teeth. Often, this means choosing a porcelain crown, which is tooth-colored and resistant to stains.
- Can be Maintained like Real Teeth
Dental bridges have the same durability as dental crowns. They may not have the same strength and resilience as natural teeth, but they will last a long time if they are well-maintained. The typical lifespan of a dental bridge is 10 years. The strength of the bridge lies in the health of the supporting teeth, which means you need to maintain good oral hygiene if you want the bridges to last a long time.
Disadvantages of a Dental Bridge:
- Decay Surrounding Natural Teeth
A typical dental bridge compromises the integrity of teeth used as anchors to support the bridge. The process requires removing the material from the natural teeth to place the bridge, and thus, causing additional pressure and stress on the tooth. This can cause the supporting teeth to degrade or fail in the future. If the surrounding natural teeth decay, the dental bridge structure will fail.
- Costly Procedure
Because the implants have to be placed in the beginning, it can take a few weeks to months for the process to complete, especially if bone grafting is required initially. Although the cost of the two implants on either side of the bridge does increase the overall cost, it will still be less than getting all implants. But the frequency of dental clinic visits for the entire procedure adds up to the overall cost.
If you are having a gap between your teeth and are feeling less confident while smiling, go for a dental bridge. It will provide the much-needed strength to your jaw structure and will help to avoid any need for an emergency dentist for teeth problems.
