A missing tooth and a gap between teeth are not only unsightly but can also cause other problems. Speaking and chewing can be difficult. The teeth adjacent to the gap eventually shift into the space, which can affect your bite, lead to gum disease, and possibly even TMJ (Temporomandibular joint) problems.
One option for filling a gap caused by a missing tooth is a dental bridge. There are removable dental bridges, also called partial dentures, which can be taken out and cleaned like dentures, and there are fixed dental bridges, sometimes called fixed partial dentures.
A dental bridge is so-called because it bridges the gap where one or more teeth were. Bridges are cemented onto the teeth that are adjacent to the gap. The adjacent teeth, called abutments, serve as anchors for the bridge. The adjacent teeth are ground down and fitted with a crown. A replacement tooth, called a pontic, is then attached to these crowns to form the bridge. The unit is securely cemented to your teeth and your smile and ability to chew food are improved.
Reasons why a dental bridge could help you
- Restore your ability to chew and speak properly.
- Maintain the shape of your face to prevent your lips or face from drooping
- Distribute the forces in your bite to reduce the stress on other teeth
- Prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of position into the gap.
There are different types of dental bridges. Each bridge is made of different materials and is better suited for certain areas of the mouth and certain situations.
Type of dental bridges
Traditional bridges:
These are the most common dental bridges. A crown is made for the tooth (abutment) on either side of the missing tooth and a replacement tooth (pontic) is placed between them. Traditional bridges are made of either porcelain fused to metal or ceramic.
Cantilever bridges:
These bridges are used when the replacement tooth can only be supported by one side. A cantilever dental bridge is usually used when the gap is small and the stresses are minimal.
Bonded Maryland Bridges:
The Maryland bridge, named after the College of Maryland Dental School where it was developed, uses metal or plastic “wings” on each side of the bridge that is bonded to the existing teeth. A Maryland bridge is also referred to as a resin-bonded bridge. One of its great advantages is that the anchor teeth require very little if any, preparation.
Implant-supported dental bridges:
These bridges are recommended if you are missing more than one tooth. In this technique, two or more dental implants are placed at a distance from each other. These implants serve as abutments (anchors) for the permanently cemented bridge. Since dental implants simulate tooth roots, they maintain the integrity of the jawbone and provide a solid support for the bridge.
As with crowns, bridges come in different types of materials. Gold, alloy, porcelain, or a combination of all of these. The choice of material depends on your existing dentition, the area of the mouth to be restored, and the type of bridge that will be used. Here at Aqua Dental Studio, we will recommend the best treatment option based on the patient’s needs. With proper care and dental hygiene, your bridge will keep you smiling for many years.
Get in touch with us to learn more about our services. Call(954) 955-6590 Aqua Dental Studio to book an appointment. Our office is located at 2123 N University Drive. Coral Springs, Fl 33071
