- A dental bridge is a dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by joining an artificial tooth (pontic) to natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap, called abutment teeth. These are cemented into place and help restore your smile, improve chewing function, maintain the shape of your face, and prevent other teeth from shifting.
How they work
- Abutments: These are the teeth or implants on either side of the gap that anchor the bridge.
- Pontics: This is the false tooth (or teeth) that fills the empty space.
- Materials: Bridges can be made of various materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination, allowing for a match to your natural teeth.
Types of dental bridges
- Traditional dental bridge: This is the most common type, consisting of crowns on the abutment teeth and pontics in between. It is used when you have healthy natural teeth on both sides of the gap.
- Cantilever dental bridge: This type has a crown on only one side of the bridge, making the pontic “hang over” the gap. It is used when you have natural teeth on only one side of the space and is not as strong as a traditional bridge.
- Maryland dental bridge: Also known as a resin-bonded bridge, this option is more conservative because it doesn’t require crowns on the abutment teeth. Instead, it uses metal wings bonded to the back of the neighboring teeth. Maryland bridges are typically used for front teeth as they are not strong enough for back teeth.
Benefits of dental bridges
- Restore your smile.
- Improve your ability to chew and speak properly.
- Maintain the shape of your face.
- Restore your smile.
- Prevent remaining teeth from shifting into the empty space
Considerations
- Lifespan: Dental bridges typically last 5 to 15 years, depending on proper care.
- Maintenance: Good oral hygiene is crucial to the longevity of a bridge.
- Cost: The cost varies based on factors like the number of teeth, materials, and your overall oral health.
