Dental bridges are a type of dental restoration used to replace one or a few missing teeth. There are different types of dental bridges, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of dental bridges and their benefits and drawbacks. We will also provide helpful tips on choosing the right type of bridge for your specific situation.
So, if you are wondering what type of dental bridge is most suitable for your needs, keep reading!
What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are a widely common dental prosthesis that has several indications, including:
- The replacement of missing teeth
- The prevention of tooth movement
- The restoration of dental functions such as eating and speech
The typical dental bridge has two dental crowns placed over the adjacent teeth, known as abutment teeth. Between the dental crowns is a false or fake tooth, known as a pontic.
Dental bridges are made with a variety of materials. Usually, a combination of metal and porcelain or purely ceramic to match the natural colour of the teeth.
Bridges can be used for both functional and cosmetic purposes. There are several different types of dental bridges, and the type that is suitable for you will depend on your individual needs. Your dentist can help you choose the right type based on your condition.
What Are The Different Types of Dental Bridges?
If you’re considering dental bridges for dental restoration, it’s important to know that there are several types to choose from.
Traditional Dental Bridge
A traditional dental bridge is a restorative dentistry treatment used to replace one or more missing teeth and is the most common type of dental bridge.
The traditional bridge consists of two crowns, which are placed over the adjacent teeth and act as anchors, and one or more false or fake teeth, known as pontics, which are attached to the crowns. The pontic acts as a filler to replace the missing tooth.
Bridges are typically made of metal or porcelain, or a combination of both, and can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth.
There are several reasons why you might need a traditional dental bridge. For example, if you have missing teeth, it can help restore your smile and improve your speaking and chewing function. Bridges can help prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of place.
The major downside of traditional bridges is that they require the preparation of the adjacent teeth, which means that some of the healthy tooth structure must be removed. Unfortunately, this process cannot be reversed. When too much enamel is removed, it may weaken or damage your teeth.
Cantilever Dental Bridge
A cantilever dental bridge is a type of dental bridge supported by one or more teeth on one side. Cantilever bridges are used by dentists when there are healthy teeth on only one side of the space left by a missing tooth or teeth.
A cantilever bridge is made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the space and a false tooth or teeth in between. False tooth/teeth, called pontic teeth, can be made from gold, metal alloys, porcelain material, or a combination of these and are attached to the crowned abutment teeth.
There are several uses for cantilever bridges. They:
- Replace front teeth because they exert less force on abutment teeth than other types of bridges.
- Can be used where there are adjacent teeth, but they have fillings that prevent conventional preparation for crowns.
- May be recommended when it is not possible to obtain support from natural teeth or implants on both sides of the empty space.
Like all dental appliances, cantilever bridges have advantages and disadvantages that should be considered before treatment.
Some of the advantages include:
- Less destructive to adjacent healthy teeth
- May not require as much time in treatment as other types of dental appliances
- Economical
- Natural looking
On the other hand, some disadvantages include:
- More expensive than a fixed partial denture
- Not as strong/durable as other kinds
- Decreased stability compared to traditional bridges
- Requires more maintenance
Maryland Dental Bridge
A Maryland dental bridge is a type of dental prosthetic that consists of a metal wing or porcelain framework attached to the adjacent teeth, and one or more artificial teeth (plastic teeth) are then attached to the framework.
Maryland dental bridges are also called resin-bonded bridges and are considered a less invasive option and a more conservative alternative than traditional dental brigdes.
There are several pros and cons to Maryland dental bridges, so it is important to consult a qualified dentist to see if this type of prosthetic is right for you.
Some of the pros include:
- They can be used to restore both aesthetics and function.
- They do not require as much removal of tooth enamel as traditional bridges.
The cons of Maryland dental bridges include:
- The artificial teeth can eventually debond or become loose over time.
- The metal framework can cause gum irritation in some patients.
- They are less durable and may need to be replaced more often than traditional bridges.
- The bonding can cause the abutment teeth to darken in colour.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridge
An implant-supported dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth or teeth that are supported by dental implants. The implant is surgically placed in the jaw bone and allowed to fuse with the bone, which anchors the implant in place. Once it is securely in place, the dental bridge is then attached to the implant.
An implant-supported dental bridge has many pros, including:
- Replacing a single tooth or more missing teeth
- Filling a tooth gap in your smile
- Improving the function of your bite
- Improve the health of your jawbone
- Improve overall dental health
- Help to prevent further tooth loss
- Promoting jaw bone growth
However, there are also some cons to this type of dental restoration. For example:
- Implant surgery is a complex procedure that requires a high degree of surgical skill
- Implant surgery is typically more expensive than other types of dental restoration
How Do Dental Bridges Vary In Cost?
The cost of dental bridges can vary depending on several factors, such as:
- The type of bridge
- The materials used
- The number of teeth being replaced
- Whether or not you need to have any preparatory work done
- Dentist’s experience
- Dentist’s Location
Generally speaking, implant-supported bridges are the most expensive among the different types of dental bridges.
Who Needs Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are often recommended for people who have lost one or more teeth. The ideal candidates for dental bridges are:
- Non-smokers
- People with one or two adjacent missing teeth
- People with no gum disease and tooth decay
- People who have healthy teeth on each side of the missing tooth
- People who are committed to maintaining good oral and dental hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly
How Do Dental Bridges Benefit Me?
Bridges can help to:
- Restore your smile
- Maintain the shape of your face
- Support your lips and cheeks
- Make it easier to eat and speak
- Prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of place
What Is The Process Of Getting A Dental Bridge?
If you’re considering getting a dental bridge, you may be wondering what the process is like. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting a dental bridge:
- The first step is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. During this visit, your dentist will examine your mouth and take x-rays to determine if a dental bridge is the best option for you.
- If you decide to proceed with treatment, the next step is to have your teeth prepared for the placement of crowns. This involves removing some of the enamel from the teeth on either side of the gap to make room for the crowns.
- Once your teeth have been prepared, impressions will be made and sent off to a dental laboratory, where your bridge will be custom-crafted.
- In the meantime, you will be fitted with a temporary bridge so that you can continue to eat and speak normally.
- When your permanent bridge is ready, you will return to the dentist’s office for placement. The bridge will be checked for fit and then bonded into place using a special adhesive.
- After making checking the fit and appearance of your new bridge, your dentist will give you tips on how to care for it and ensure that it remains in top condition, lasting for many years. This will include instructions to practise proper oral hygiene and avoid hard, sticky foods.
Are There Alternative To Dental Bridges?
Bridges can help restore the function and appearance of your smile, but they are not the only option. Some alternatives to dental bridges include:
Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically inserted into the jawbone. Once the implants have integrated with the bone, they provide a strong foundation for artificial teeth.
Dental implants look, feel, and function just like natural teeth and do not require support from adjacent teeth.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are removable appliances consisting of artificial teeth that are attached to a metal framework. The framework is held in place by clasps that fit over the existing teeth.
Partial dentures can be removed for cleaning and sleeping.
Which Dental Bridge Is Right For Me?
The type of dental bridge you need will depend on your needs and individual factors. Some of these are the number of teeth you are missing and their location in your mouth. Your dentist will also consider the health of your existing teeth and gums when making a recommendation.
Final Thoughts
If you are missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge may be the right choice for you. Talk to your dentist about the different types of dental bridges, so you’ll know which one best suits you.
Clear Choice Dental can help you get started on your journey to a beautiful smile. Call us today at our Yokine clinic at (08) 9345 0455 or our Maddington clinic at (08) 9452 8877 to schedule an appointment. You may also book an appointment using our website.
We look forward to helping you achieve optimal oral health!
