For adults missing teeth, dental bridges in Webster is an option to restore look and function. Dental bridges are often recommended for patients with one, two, or three missing teeth in a row, which can affect bite, speech, or their mouth’s appearance.
While dental bridges have many advantages, they’re not ideal for every situation. Learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of dental bridges, and your different options for missing teeth.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is an artificial tooth that’s used to restore a gap caused by a missing tooth or teeth. Dental bridges typically have two or more crowns for the teeth on either side, which serve as an anchor to secure the bridge. An artificial tooth, or pontic, is used between the crowns to replace the missing tooth.
Bridges typically have an artificial tooth made from porcelain, which looks and feels more like a natural tooth.
Advantages of a Dental Bridge
Dental bridges have benefits over conventional removable partial dentures or dental implants.1 The bridge doesn’t require any surgery, so it’s less invasive than other options. Most dental bridges are quick and simple outpatient procedures that are completed in one visit. Because the procedure isn’t surgical, it doesn’t have a lengthy recovery period.
Bridges can also be more affordable than implants. For patients missing multiple teeth in a row, a dental bridge can restore the look and function at a lower cost than other restoration options.
Dental bridges are more realistic and comfortable than removable partial dentures. Because dentures can move around in the mouth, they may be more noticeable and can fall out while eating or talking. Patients with dentures may also experience discomfort from insecure dentures.
Unlike dentures, dental bridges are secure to the existing teeth or implants rather than the gums. This provides more security and limits their movement and discomfort.
Disadvantages of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are affordable, realistic-looking options for dental restoration, but they’re not suitable for every patient or situation.
Some dental bridges require alteration to the natural, healthy teeth surrounding them. For these bridges, the dentist must remove some of the enamel from the surrounding teeth and crown them which may leave them these otherwise healthy teeth vulnerable to problems.
They’re also not as long-lasting as other dental restoration options. Implants are more expensive, but they can last a lifetime. Bridges last 7-10 years with proper care.
Finally, bridges do not prevent bone loss at the site of the missing teeth. When several teeth are missing, the surrounding jawbone can erode, leading other teeth to shift, more tooth loss, and possible facial distortion or sagging. Dental implants are the best option to stop bone resorption and create a root if this happens.
Types of Dental Bridges
All dental bridges serve the primary function of “bridging” the gap between teeth, but there are several kinds of bridges:1
- Traditional dental bridge: The most common type of dental bridge is a traditional bridge. It is made of two dental crowns and up to three pontics. The bridge is secured to the healthy teeth on either side of the missing teeth, leaving the pontics suspended between them. This creates the look and function of natural teeth.
- Cantilever bridge: It is not an ideal option but a cantilever bridge can be used in certain cases where the teeth next to the missing tooth are strong enough to hold a pontic as a cantilever to the bridge.
- Implant-supported bridge: The implant-supported bridge uses dental implants to secure it rather than healthy, natural teeth. This is a good solution for multiple missing teeth and one of the most durable and long-lasting options for a dental bridge.
Restore Your Missing Teeth with Dental Bridges in Webster
You don’t have to struggle with missing teeth! With several options for dental bridges available at Empire Dental Care, you can restore the beauty and function of your smile.
To learn more about our dental bridge options, please call us at 585-671-1650 to schedule your consultation!
Sources:
[1] https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-health-bridges
