Dental bridges are important for keeping your mouth healthy. They fill in spaces left by missing teeth, helping maintain your facial structure and keeping your bite aligned. Choosing the right dental bridge depends on a few things, and understanding how they work can help you make the best choice.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge has two crowns and a false tooth in the middle. The crowns anchor the bridge to the teeth next to the gap, while the false tooth, called a pontic, fills in the space. Bridges can improve how your mouth looks and functions. They prevent your other teeth from shifting, which can mess up your bite. Bridges also help distribute the pressure of your bite evenly, reducing the chance of more dental problems later on.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are two main types of dental bridges, each with its own pros and cons. The two types are traditional bridges and implant-supported bridges. Knowing the difference between them can help you pick the right one for your needs.
Traditional Bridges
Traditional bridges are the most common. They have a false tooth held in place by crowns that attach to the teeth on both sides of the gap. Traditional bridges are usually strong and can last a long time. They do require healthy teeth on either side of the gap to support the crowns. This type of bridge works best when there are natural teeth next to the missing tooth.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Implant-supported bridges use dental implants for support instead of crowns on nearby teeth. They are very stable and often last longer than traditional bridges, but they require a surgical procedure to place the implants. This type of bridge is often used when several teeth are missing in a row.
The process of getting an implant-supported bridge involves a few steps. First, the dentist will place the implants in your jawbone, which requires surgery. After that, you need to wait for the implants to heal and fuse with the bone, which can take a few months. Once healed, the dentist will take an impression of your teeth to create a custom bridge that will be attached to the implants.
Things to Consider
When choosing a dental bridge, you need to think about a few factors. These include where the missing tooth is, the health of the teeth next to it, and your budget. Talking with your dentist about these factors will help you decide which option is best for you.
Location of the Missing Tooth
Where the missing tooth is located plays a big part in which bridge is best. For example, if the missing tooth is in the front, you might need a bridge that looks more natural. For molars, a stronger, more durable option might be better since they do most of the chewing.
Condition of Nearby Teeth
The health of the teeth next to the missing one matters too. If your nearby teeth are strong, they can support a traditional or cantilever bridge. If your teeth are weaker, you might need an implant-supported bridge or a Maryland bridge, which doesn’t rely on neighboring teeth as much.
Cost
It’s also important to think about how much each type of bridge will cost over time. Traditional bridges might be less expensive upfront but could need more maintenance. Implant-supported bridges cost more at first but often last longer and require fewer repairs. Your dentist can help you compare the costs and benefits of each type.
Talking to Your Dentist
Your dentist will play a key role in helping you pick the right dental bridge. They will check your oral health and talk to you about the pros and cons of each option. During your appointment, the dentist will look at your teeth and gums and may take X-rays to see how strong your jawbone is and how healthy your nearby teeth are. They will then help you decide which bridge is best for you and explain the process.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Taking care of your dental bridge is important for keeping it in good shape. You should brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for check-ups. Avoid eating hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge. Good oral hygiene will help prevent decay and gum disease, which can affect your bridge.
At Frederick Center for Dentistry, we focus on providing top-quality dental care. Our team works with you to create a treatment plan that fits your needs. We use the latest tools and techniques to ensure you get the best results. Contact us today to set up a consultation and start working toward a healthy, beautiful smile.