BRIDGES
BRIDGES
Smile Street Dentistry offers a wide variety of treatments and services.
A dental bridge may be recommended as a treatment option if you have missing teeth. A bridge is a prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth. It is made up of one or more false teeth, called pontics, anchored in place by dental crowns placed on the surrounding natural teeth. The pontics and crowns are then fused to create a single unit that is cemented in place. Bridges can be made from gold, alloys, or porcelain. Porcelain is the most commonly used material because it can closely match the color and appearance of your existing teeth. Bridges are an excellent option to fill the gap created by missing teeth and help to restore the proper bite, and improve the appearance of your smile.
WHY WOULD YOU CHOOSE A DENTAL BRIDGE?
Bridges can have several benefits for people who have missing teeth. They can help to maintain the shape of your face, restore your smile, and improve the appearance of your teeth. They also help to restore your ability to speak and chew properly. Additionally, bridges prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of position, which can cause additional dental problems. By filling the gap created by missing teeth, bridges help to distribute the force of biting and chewing evenly across the mouth. This helps to prevent excess wear on the remaining teeth and keeps the bite in proper alignment. This, in turn, helps preserve the overall health of your jaw and teeth and helps prevent the need for further dental work.
TYPES OF DENTAL BRIDGES:
There are three main types of dental bridges
TRADITIONAL DENTAL BRIDGE AND MARYLAND DENTAL BRIDGE
A traditional dental bridge is a common bridge used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more false teeth, called pontics, that are held in place by dental crowns permanently attached to each of the teeth on either side of the gap. The crowns are custom-made to fit over the remaining natural teeth, and the pontic is created to match the shape, size, and color of the surrounding teeth. This type of bridge is typically used when the teeth on either side of the gap are natural and healthy.
A Maryland dental bridge, also known as a resin-bonded or a Maryland bridge, is a variation of the traditional bridge. It is also used to replace one or more missing teeth, but the bridge is attached using metal or porcelain wings bonded to the back of the existing teeth. The wings are usually placed on just one side of the bridge, and the pontic is made of porcelain or plastic. This type of bridge is typically used when the teeth on one side of the gap are healthy, but the teeth on the other side are not strong enough to support a traditional bridge.
CANTILEVER BRIDGE
A cantilever bridge is a type of dental bridge supported by only one abutment tooth, the natural tooth adjacent to the gap. It differs from a traditional bridge, supported by two or more abutment teeth. The cantilever bridge attaches to the abutment tooth like a crown and extends over the gap, filling in the missing space in the mouth. This type of bridge is typically used when only one natural tooth is available to support the bridge.
PREPARING FOR YOUR BRIDGE
What to expect during your dental bridge appointment
A temporary bridge is placed to provide a natural feel while the permanent bridge is being made. During the first visit, the natural teeth supporting the bridge are prepared by removing a portion of the enamel. Impressions are then taken to create a model for the permanent bridge and crowns.
The temporary bridge is removed at the second appointment, and the permanent bridge is fitted and adjusted for proper fit and comfort. The bridge is then cemented in place, and final adjustments are made.
It is important to note that there may be several follow-up appointments to ensure that the bridge fits comfortably and functions appropriately. Your dentist will monitor the fit and make adjustments to ensure optimal results.
Request An Appointment
Have any questions?
Please contact us or call (310) 391-8787 today.
