Have you lost some teeth and are seeking a solution to regain your smile? Requiring a dental bridge may just be your answer. Dental bridges are a precise and durable solution to replace teeth, restore both function and beauty. In this detailed guide, we will cover everything you need to know about dental bridges, their types, materials used, the procedure, advantages, and disadvantages. We’ll also go over how dental bridges stack up against other tooth replacement methods, so you can make an educated decision.
Dental bridges are a common aspect of dentistry.
This appliance is secured to the existing teeth (known as abutment teeth) on either side of the gap or, in the case of the teeth being missing, by dental implants, thus “bridging” the space. It uses false tooth (or teeth) supported by crowns in the neighboring natural teeth or dental implants. The main purpose of dental bridges is to restore the normal function of your teeth such as chewing, speaking, and smiling.
They are designed according to your natural teeth in terms of shape, size, and colour, so they blend into your smile perfectly. Due to its effectiveness for people who do not qualify for dental implants, this fixed prosthesis is a widely used solution.
How Is a Dental Bridge Different from Dentures?
Although dental bridges and dentures are both options for replacing lost teeth, they have significant differences in terms of design, stability, and upkeep. Dental bridges are fixed appliances, bonded to the teeth on either side, and cannot be removed by the patient. Dentures, however, are removable and are usually kept in place by natural suction or adhesives.
Bridges being suitable to those with healthy neighboring teeth that can support the prosthetic while dentures may be more viable for people in need of a full set or with worrying oral health.
Types of Dental Bridges: Which One Is Right for You?
It is on the strength of your requirements; there are different types of dental bridges. Now, let’s review the four categories:
- Traditional Dental Bridge:
Support: You need adjacent natural teeth for support.
- Procedure: Fill down the surrounding teeth to fit the crowns, and place a false tooth between the two teeth.
- Best Suited For: Missing teeth when adjacent teeth are healthy.
- Cantilever Dental Bridge:
- Support: Implants are supported by a single adjacent tooth.
- Procedure: Because only a single tooth is used to anchor the bridge, this is an ideal solution for gaps that are closed but may not have enough space for a conventional bridge.
- Best For: Single tooth, missing spaces.
- Maryland Dental Bridge:
- Support: A metal or porcelain framework attaches the false tooth to the back of teeth surrounding it.
- Procedure: The bridge is attached with only slight alteration to the existing teeth positioned infront.
- Best For: A less invasive alternative.
- Implant-Supported Bridge:
- Type of denture: Supported by dental implants instead of natural teeth.
- Process: The bridge is supported with multiple placed implants in the jawbone.
- Best For: Missing multiple teeth, or those with too few healthy natural teeth to support a conventional bridge.
All of these bridge types have distinct advantages, which is why it’s important to speak to a dentist about your options to find out what’s best for you.
How are Dental Bridges made?
Dental bridges are made of a variety of materials, which contribute to their strength, appearance, and function. A set of most common materials are:
- Porcelain: Also prized for its natural appearance, porcelain is common for visible bridges when you smile. It resembles natural teeth and is a highly durable material.
- Ceramic: Like porcelain, ceramic bridges are also very aesthetic as well as strong.
- Metal Alloys: Less aesthetically pleasing than porcelain, metal alloys are used to restore the back teeth where their strength and resistance to wear are important.
- Less common, resin bridges: They are usually used temporarily until a more permanent bridge can be fitted.
The material you use is going to be determined by a few factors from where you want to put your bridge to whether you want strength or how good it looks.
How is the Process for Receiving a Dental Bridge?
Getting a dental bridge usually involves many appointments with your dentist. Here’s a general description of the process:
- Consultation and Planning
Your dentist will examine your oral health, the medical history, and perform X-rays to determine the state of your remaining teeth and jawbone. Then from this assessment, they will suggest the type of bridge that is right for you!
- Tooth Preparation
If you’re receiving a traditional or cantilever bridge, the adjacent teeth will be filed down to create space for the crowns. A local anaesthesia procedure may be necessary at this stage to take you through the process comfortably.
- Impressions and Temporary Bridges
Once your teeth are prepared, impressions are made of your teeth to ensure that the final bridge is properly fitting in your mouth. Meanwhile, a temporary bridge might be installed to cover your teeth and gums.
- Final Fitting and Adjustments
During your follow-up appointment, your dentist will insert the permanent bridge and adjust it to ensure comfort and function. The last bridge is cemented on to the next tooth or implant.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
The average lifespan for dental bridges is anywhere from 5 years to 15 years depending on the type of bridge, the materials used, and how well you maintain your oral hygiene. It is important to have regular dental check-ups so that the bridge is properly maintained and surrounding teeth do not have decay.
What Are the Advantages of Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges have many advantages, including:
- Enhanced Functionality: Bridges help restore chewing, speaking and the ability to smile confidently.
- Aesthetic Restoration: They provide a natural appearance to the bridges as it looks and feels like natural teeth, improving your smile.
- Prevent Teeth from Shifting: Bridges fill in the gaps and can stop your other teeth from shifting or affecting your bite.
- Durability: Dental bridges are designed to be long-lasting, making them an excellent and reliable solution for missing teeth when properly maintained over time.
What Are the Common Risks Associated With Dental Bridges?
Although dental bridges provide a great solution for many individuals, it is important to note that not all candidates qualify for this treatment. Potential drawbacks include:
Natural Tooth Preservation: A traditional bridge involves the filing of surrounding healthy teeth, which may not suit every person.
Risk of Decaying: If not proper maintenance of the adjacent teeth or the bridge itself, it can be prone to decay.
Not for Everyone: Those who have poor health of the jawbone and gums may not be suitable candidates for dental bridges and may require implants.
How Do Dental Bridges Stack Up Against Other Tooth Replacement Solutions?
Here’s how dental bridges compare to other tooth replacement options, including dentures and dental implants:
| Feature | Dental Bridge | Dentures | Dental Implants |
| Stability | Fixed, no removal required | Removable | Fixed, requires surgical placement |
| Procedure Time | 2-3 visits | 1-2 visits | Multiple visits over several months |
| Lifespan | 5-15 years | 5-10 years | 10-20 years |
| Cost | Moderate to high | Low to moderate | High |
| Support for Adjacent Teeth | Requires support from adjacent teeth | No support needed | Supported by implants, no need for adjacent teeth |
| Maintenance | Regular cleaning, no removal | Requires removal and cleaning | Regular cleaning, no removal |
Albany Creek Dental: Here For Your Imagination to Help Restore Your Smile
Just be mindful if you haven’t had any of the necessary actual dental work performed, now is not the best time for a discussion of a dental bridge. Albany Creek Dental loves restoring smiles, we will work with you to ensure you have the best care possible. With dental professionals in hand, we know how delicate the process is and understand the importance of what we provide, you will be guided through every step of the way from consultation to final bridge fitting.
Hence, if you’re in need of either a standard bridge, cantilever bridge, or implant-supported bridge, let us assist you to get the proper solution for your situation. Call us today to figure out how you can start moving towards a healthy, beautiful smile.
Read More: Can you get a cavity under a crown? Key Advice from Dentists at Albany Creek
References:
- Australian Dental Association. (2024). Dental Bridges: Everything You Need to Know.
- Dental Health Services Victoria. (2024). Dental Bridges and Restorative Options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When do I need a dental bridge?
If you have gaps in your smiles, missing multiple teeth, have difficulty chewing, speaking, or smiling boldly, a dental bridge might work exceptionally well. Your dentist will evaluate and determine the best course of action based on your needs.
2. Can a dental bridge fall out?
Although dental bridges are fixed, they are not indestructible and can loosen or break if not properly cared for. Routine appointments with your Emergency dentist are critical to keep your bridge intact.
3. What are the alternatives to dental bridges?
Yes, affordable alternatives are dentures and dental implants. Dentures, for example, are a removable solution for replacing multiple teeth placed in the mouth together, whereas dental implants offer a more permanent solution for replacing one or more teeth.
4. When Do I Need To Replace a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge may need to be replaced due to wear, damage, or changes in your oral health over time. Your dentist will check the status of the bridge in regular dental appointments.
5. How Long Does It Take a Dental Bridge to Heal?
The recovery time is minimal, though you might feel some discomfort or sensitivity in the days after the procedure. Most people go back to their regular activities within days.
6. How should I take care of my dental bridge?
Brush and floss your dental bridge every day, and skip sticky or hard foods that can break a dental bridge. Maintenance is crucial for its durability, and regular dental check ups are necessary.