Here is the comprehensive guide to the types and benefits of dental bridges

Dental bridges function precisely as they sound. They bridge the gap created by missing teeth. A dental bridge is ideal for replacing one or several missing teeth. They provide desired results in a reasonably non-invasive and quick way. This article will walk you through the types and benefits of dental bridges.

What Are Dental Bridges?

• If you lose teeth that were initially adjacent to each other, the dentist will recommend a dental bridge to replace the missing teeth. Dental bridges or replacement teeth are designed to bridge the gap left behind by missing teeth. The replacement tooth is pontic and provides an adequate chewing surface like natural teeth. 

Dental crowns fit over the teeth adjacent to the gap. These teeth are known as abutment teeth. The replacement teeth fit between this area to create a complete restoration. The pontic rests on the gum line or jawbone without puncturing them.

Types Of Dental Bridges

We have discussed the most common types of dental bridges.

Traditional Dental Bridges

• In this type of dental bridge, dental crowns cover adjacent teeth and anchor the pontic in the mouth. They can replace up to three teeth at one time. Traditional dental bridges can be customized to match the color of natural teeth and allows them to blend in seamlessly with the smile. The teeth on each side of the missing tooth must be strong and healthy enough to support the dental crowns.

Cantilever Dental Bridges

• Cantilevers are pretty similar to traditional bridges. However, they only require one dental crown as an anchor. They are ideal for replacing teeth that have only one tooth available to support the dental crown. They are less durable than traditional dental bridges, using only one tooth for the anchor.

Maryland Dental Bridges

• The Maryland bridge is the most conservative type of available option for dental bridges. Unlike a traditional bridge, which uses a dental crown, a Maryland bridge uses metal wings to anchor to neighboring teeth. The metal clasps are hidden behind teeth, so the bridge is not visible in the mouth.

Implant-Supported Dental Bridges

• Implant-supported bridges are the most permanent types of dental bridges. Instead of dental crowns attached to abutment teeth, they rely on dental implant posts as anchors. This allows natural teeth to stay in good condition.

The procedure for placing these dental bridges is comparatively more prolonged, but once implant-supported bridges are secure in the mouth, they stimulate the development of jaw bone. They are one of the most expensive dental bridges but provide value for money.

Benefits Of Dental Bridges

• Dental bridges are a perfect solution for people with missing teeth.
• They are one of the fastest tooth replacement options for smile restoration.
• Missing teeth make it challenging to chew certain food and pronounce words. Dental bridges provide a proper chewing surface and enable a patient to speak clearly.
• The jaw bone under the areas with missing teeth starts to deteriorate. Dental bridges prevent this issue and maintain the natural shape of the face.
• When there is a gap between teeth, the natural teeth are more likely to drift and become loose. Dental bridges can help keep the natural teeth in place by filling the gaps created by missing teeth.

Gaps in the teeth can make it difficult to eat, speak, or feel confident. The best solution to this is a smile restoration dental bridge treatment. Call or visit Icon Dental Center today if you have questions about dental bridges. Find us in Seattle, and call us for any queries at 206-225-2882. Contact us at 425-337-2400 for Everett.