An Overview of Dental Bridges
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge not only restores your smile, it also balances the normal bite, prevents the other teeth from moving/tilting, prevents the onset of decay and prevents undue stress to the dental ridge. Dental bridges literally mean bridging the gap between missing teeth. It’s made up of two crowns anchored on the teeth on either side or both sides of the gap. The false tooth called pontic is attached between the two crowns to fill the area of the missing tooth.
There are three different types of dental bridges:
1. Traditional bridges
This type of bridge creates a crown on opposing sides of the missing tooth with the pontic in between. Traditional bridges are the most common bridges. They are usually made from porcelain attached to metal or ceramic.
2. Cantilever bridges
Cantilever bridges are used when the adjacent teeth is only one side of the missing tooth.
3. Maryland bonded bridges
This bridge is made of plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal framework. The metal wings on each side of the bridge are attached to the adjacent teeth.
Dental bridges usually require two visits to your dentist. The first visit involves the preparation of the abutment teeth, re-contouring of the teeth where the crown will be placed and making an impression of the teeth which will serve as the model for the pontic, crown and bridge. The dentist will prepare a temporary bridge for you to protect the exposed teeth and gums while the bridge is being made. On the next visit, the dentist will remove the temporary bridge and replace it with the permanent bridge.
Make it a habit to practice proper dental care and have regular dental check-ups so that your fixed bridge will last longer.Bridges need extra care because the build up of bacteria on the treated area will cause infection such as gingivitis.
If you want to learn more about dental bridges, consult with our Ft Lauderdale dentists for treatment options.
