There are many viable options for tooth replacement available today, each offering a range of advantages for patients. Choosing between them largely depends on a patient’s level of comfort, type of tooth loss and their dentist’s recommendation.
Dental bridges are a frequently recommend option for tooth replacement, ideal for individuals missing one or more consecutive teeth. However, they rely on a few natural and healthy teeth for support, making them different from complete restoration options like full dentures. Dental bridges instead literally ‘bridge’ the gap between teeth.
With a dental bridge, an artificial tooth (called a pontic) replaces the missing teeth. The pontic receives structural support from the adjacent natural teeth, known as abutments in the procedure. The abutments are connect to the pontics with the help of synthetic crowns placed on the abutments.
This article breaks down dental bridges, explores what dental bridges are made of and clarifies when the procedure is a good choice.
Types of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges have been around for decades and can be made from a variety of materials. There are four main types of dental bridges, distinguished by their design:
Traditional Bridges:
A traditional bridge consists of one or more pontics attached to dental crowns on either side, which are in turn cemented onto natural teeth/abutments. These are the most popular and commonly used types of dental bridges and require natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth.
Cantilever Bridges:
Cantilever bridges resemble traditional bridges with one key difference: the pontic is attach to an abutment on only one side of the missing teeth instead of both. They require just one natural tooth adjacent to the gap. However, cantilever bridges are not commonly use because of the reduce support and success rate.
Maryland Bridges:
Like traditional bridges, Maryland bridges use abutments on both sides of the pontic to support the dental bridge. However, instead of dental crowns, the pontic is support by a framework with metal or porcelain wing-like extensions that are cement onto the backs of the abutment teeth. Like cantilever bridges, Maryland bridges often lack adequate support and may not be a widely recommend procedure.
Implant-Supported Bridges:
As the name suggests, these bridges derive support from an implant framework instead of tooth abutments. An implant is surgically place in the jawbone where the tooth is missing and capped with a dental crown. One implant may be place for each missing tooth, or a dental bridge may be construct with one or more pontics suspended between implant-supported crowns.
What Are Dental Bridges Made Of?
Dental bridges are made of 4 primary types of materials. These are as follows:
- Porcelain Fixed Bridges
Porcelain bridges are ideal for front teeth due to their natural, tooth-like appearance. They are metal-free and blend well with surrounding teeth, offering excellent aesthetics. However, they’re best suit for areas with lower bite pressure. Because of their aesthetic value, porcelain fixed bridges are more commonly prefer by patients.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Bridges
PFM bridges combine a strong metal base with a porcelain outer layer, making them suitable for both front and back teeth. They offer both durability and aesthetic value, though the metal core may sometimes become visible near the gum line.
- Zirconia Bridges
Zirconia bridges are known for their superior strength and lifelike appearance. They are made using CAD/CAM technology, ensuring a precise fit and long-lasting performance. These bridges are ideal for patients who need both durability and aesthetics.
- Full Metal Bridges
Made from gold or other metal alloys, full metal bridges are extremely durable and long-lasting. They are mostly used for back teeth, where strength is a priority over appearance. Despite their strength, they are less common due to their metallic look.
- Composite Resin/Acrylic Bridges
Typically use as temporary bridges, these are made from composite resin or acrylic materials. They protect the prepare teeth while a permanent bridge is being fabricate. Though not durable, they are a quick and affordable short-term solution.
The Benefits of Dental Bridges
The following are some key benefits of dental bridges:
- Dental bridges are a fixed type of restoration that enables the wearer to smile, talk, and eat comfortably.
- Compared to removable dentures, it is much easier to get accustom to eating and talking with dental bridges.
- Prevents the migration and drifting of teeth into the space left by missing teeth, which can cause problems with the bite of the individual.
- It does not require long appointments for fabrication. A dental bridge procedure can be complete within 2-3 visits to the dentist.
- With the right care and oral hygiene maintenance, dental bridges can easily last 10-15 years.
Good Candidates for a Dental Bridge
Patients with one or more missing teeth who have strong adjacent teeth or implants are good candidates for dental bridges. Your dentist will evaluate your gum health, jawbone strength, and oral hygiene before recommending the best option.
Procedure for Dental Bridges
The dental bridge procedure is straightforward and usually performed under local anesthesia. Here’s what to expect:
- Local Anesthesia & Tooth Preparation
- The area around the missing teeth is numbed.
- The dentist files down the abutments to make space for the crowns that will support the bridge.
- The area around the missing teeth is numbed.
- Determining Abutments & Pontics
- The number of abutment teeth used depends on the number of pontics (artificial teeth) needed to replace the missing ones.
- Tooth impressions are take once the preparation is complete.
- The number of abutment teeth used depends on the number of pontics (artificial teeth) needed to replace the missing ones.
- Creating the Dental Bridge
- Impressions are mail to a dental lab for fabrication.
- A temporary dental bridge may be place to protect the prepared teeth before the placement of the permanent one (the timeline is usually 5–7 days).
- Impressions are mail to a dental lab for fabrication.
- Placement of the Permanent Dental Bridge
- Once ready, the dentist fits and checks the bridge for proper alignment and bite.
- After necessary adjustments, the permanent bridge is cement into place.
- Once ready, the dentist fits and checks the bridge for proper alignment and bite.
Dental Bridge with Implant Support
In some cases, a dental implant is use to support the bridge. This requires an additional surgical step and a healing period of several months to allow the implant to fuse with the jawbone. Once heal, the bridge is attach to the implant.
Recovery and Aftercare
- Minimal recovery time is need after the dental bridge is place.
- Most patients adjust to eating and speaking with the bridge within a few days to a couple of weeks.
- If pain or discomfort persists, schedule a consultation with your dentist. You may require adjustments.
Caring for a Dental Bridge Post-Procedure
Just like our natural teeth, dental bridges require regular cleaning and maintenance as well. Dental bridges can be clean with routine brushing and flossing techniques, which are necessary to prevent the accumulation of food debris and plaque around the edges of the bridge. In the absence of good oral hygiene, the accumulation of plaque can lead to decay of the abutment teeth underneath the dental bridge. This, in turn, can cause the failure of the dental bridge as a permanent restoration.
Patients are also advise to avoid chewing on hard foods to protect the structural integrity of the bridge and prevent chances of breakage and fracture of the dental crowns.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
A dental bridge is a long-term tooth replacement solution that isn’t strictly permanent. If cared for properly, a dental bridge can last over 15 years, with a typical lifespan of 5 to 15 years.
If the abutment teeth decay or the bridge becomes loose, it may need to be replace. Regular checkups and oral hygiene can prevent most issues that reduce the success and longevity of the procedure.
Getting The Right Care
Dental bridges can be an incredibly advantageous procedure for those seeking appropriate tooth replacement. However, the procedure’s suitability can only be determine in consultation with an experienced specialist. It’s important to look at what dental bridges are made of and consider your oral health goals as well.
If you’re looking for optimal tooth replacement options or struggling with specific dental issues, the experts at Le Sueur Family Dental can offer support and guidance. Our staff critically evaluates each patient’s case and develops a treatment routine that ensures the best results and quick recovery.
Call us at (507) 665-6812 or book an appointment online with one of the best Le Sueur dentists.
Our address: 219 South 2nd Street, Le Sueur, MN 56058
