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 Danville clinic to set up an appointment with our dentist.
Request an appointment here: http://www.elcerrodental.com or call Gary C Cappelletti, DDS - El Cerro Dental at (925) 837-8564 for an appointment in our Danville office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bridges in Danville, CA.
A dental crown is a device used to restore the functions and look of a tooth that has been damaged. If you need a root canal, a fractured tooth, or a big filling, your dentist may also decide to place a dental crown. The new crown covers the part of the tooth visible above the…
Looking for information on whether a dental crown or dental bridge is better for repairing damaged teeth? These two popular tooth repair options are commonly used to fix problem teeth. When it comes to which option should be used, it depends on the reason why each patient needs dental repair. Read on to find out…
Wondering how to repair a broken tooth? Anytime someone experiences damage to one or more of their teeth, professional dental treatment is often necessary. Saving a broken tooth is possible and is preferred over losing it.Understanding how someone can experience a broken tooth is necessary, as this information will help prevent it from reoccurring. Additionally,…
Dentists typically ask a series of questions during a dental exam to gather more information about the patient’s oral health, previous dental history, and goals. This helps the dentist provide sound advice and allows them, along with the patient, to put together a long-term treatment and prevention plan.The questions you are asked during a dental…
Dentists typically ask a series of questions during a dental exam to gather more information about the patient’s oral health, previous dental history, and goals. This helps the dentist provide sound advice and allows them, along with the patient, to put together a long-term treatment and prevention plan.The questions you are asked during a dental…
Many individuals overlook the significance of a good relationship with their family dentist. Understanding, trust, and open communication are the foundations of a healthy dentist-patient relationship. These characteristics contribute to patients receiving personalized dental treatment that enhances their oral health and well-being. This article contains a few compelling reasons to collaborate with the family dentist’s…