What is a Dental Bridge?

Dental Bridge

While a dental bridge may not be the most recognized restoration method, it’s a great option to consider if you have missing teeth.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is a tooth replacement method that helps keep your smile complete and functional. It bridges the gap between your teeth and the spot left behind by your previous tooth.

Every one of your teeth plays an important role in the layout and function of your mouth, when you lose one…or a few, your teeth will begin to shift to fill in the gaps. This will change the look and effectiveness of your smile and jaw, meaning it could lead to struggles consuming food!

A dental bridge includes two crowns, that will be fitted on either side of the missing gap, and a false tooth anchored in the middle. These crowns will allow your false tooth to be securely put in place and create a flawless finish.

 

Who needs a dental bridge?

 A dental bridge is great for patients who need to have or recently had a tooth extracted. If patients don’t want to let the anatomy of their smile change or lessen their mouth’s function, then a dental bridge is a great route to take.

If you are worried about the fullness of your face, and your speaking abilities being hindered at all, dental bridges may be right for you!

 

What are the Different Types?

There are three types of dental bridges. When you have a consultation with your dentist, they will discuss which type you are the best candidate for!

#1: Traditional bridge

This is the most common type, and it involves having two crowns on either side of a false tooth placed. The material it’s made of can vary, but it is usually porcelain fused to metal, or on occasion ceramic.

#2: Cantilever bridge

 This type of bridge is not very common sense if placed in the wrong location, it can add stress to your mouth. When you have a cantilever bridge, it means there is only one adjacent tooth to the missing gap. So instead of crowns on either side, you only have one anchor.

#3: Maryland bonded bridge

This bridge can be made from several things, ranging from porcelain to plastic, and it is usually held in place by metal wings on the side of the tooth.

 

How to Care for Your Dental Bridge?

Immediately following your appointment, it’s important to keep up with brushing to your comfort level in order to keep the bad bacteria at bay while you heal.

Once healed, here are some great hygiene tips for caring for your dental bridge:

  • Brush twice a day to avoid tartar build-up
  • Avoid harsh pastes such as whitening toothpaste.
  • Floss daily
  • Clean underneath your bridge daily
  • Don’t skip your regular check-ups!

Taking Your Next StepDental Bridges

If you are looking for a tooth replacement treatment that will allow you to have a functioning AND beautiful smile again, a dental bridge may be the next step for you.

So you’re ready to take your first step to complete your smile once again? Then give The Center for Implant & General Dentistry a call today at (903) 231-6605, and schedule your consultation today!