Leaving a gap in your mouth that’s unprotected by a tooth makes you more vulnerable to infection. The same plaque and bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease can seep into these gaps, causing additional oral health problems.
It’s also important to note that teeth depend on each other for stability and strength. When even one is missing, the teeth adjacent to it lose some of their support and are more likely to become loose. A dental bridge can prevent this from occurring.
For a traditional dental bridge to be a viable option, the patient must have natural teeth on either side of the gap. These teeth will be prepared by having some of their enamel removed, and a replacement tooth called a pontic will be secured between them. Dental crowns are typically added to the tooth surrounding the gap, giving it durability and a natural look. The result is a dental bridge that will both improve your appearance and restore your smile.
There are four types of dental bridges you can get to restore your teeth. However, the option that is ideal for you depends on your unique situation. Explore the four types to determine which may suit your needs:
This is the most common type of dental bridge, in which a pontic is cemented between two adjacent teeth. The surrounding teeth are covered with a realistic-looking crown.
A cantilever bridge is similar to the traditional, except it requires only one adjacent tooth. This variation enables patients with missing teeth anywhere to qualify for a dental bridge.
The advantage of a Maryland dental bridge is that the surrounding teeth don’t need to be filed down. A porcelain or metal framework is used to hold the pontic in place rather than crowns.
The implant-supported bridge is permanently secured using dental implants, which provides immense strength and durability compared to other versions of the bridge.
Follow these simple tips for cleaning your dental bridge to help it last as long as possible:
