4 Dental Bridges and Why You Must Get Them
What are dental bridges?
Dental bridges are used to replace or fill the space left by a tooth (or teeth) between two separate teeth. A dental bridge is an artificial tooth that closes the gap left by an original tooth. The “filler tooth,” also called a pontic, is made of various materials from plastic to precious metals. This procedure is used only to fill gaps that were once occupied (or should be occupied) by teeth. Dental implants can last up to decades before any readjustments are needed.
Types of dental bridges
Dental bridges come in different forms depending on the approach and the material in use. The major types of dental bridges consist of the following:
The traditional bridge
Traditional bridges are the most common types of dental bridges implanted. They are very effective, especially when there are healthy teeth on each side of the vacant space. In this procedure, the pontic is held by a dental crown. The dentist dresses the healthy teeth to keep them level and ready to hold the implanted tooth (or teeth) in place. They are done especially to replace the back teeth.
Maryland bridges
This method involves the cementing of the pontic in the vacant space between other teeth. Dentists attach the pontic to a metal framework before cementing it into space. These bridges are made to grip the teeth on either side to keep them stable. They are made of porcelain which matches the look of natural teeth. If you need a dental bridge for the front teeth, the Maryland bridge is the ideal implant.
Cantilever bridge
This is also a dental bridge for front teeth. These bridges are also made from porcelain and are attached to metal bases like the Maryland bridges. The cantilever bridge must be supported on at least one side by a natural, healthy tooth. Dentists cement the pontic on the space occupied by the unhealthy tooth. This implant is majorly for the incisors (front teeth).
Implant-supported bridges
Unlike other dental bridges, the implant-supported bridge is not supported by a metal framework at the base. Instead, a dental implant is solely used where the dentist surgically places a pontic. This procedure works best for those with multiple missing teeth. Also, they are strong enough to support the back teeth (premolars and molars). It is a lengthy procedure compared to other dental bridges. A dental implant is planted in the vacant space for the new tooth. After some months, the implant will fit in seamlessly with the gums and their surrounding tissues.
Why do you need dental bridges?
The benefits of dental bridges go beyond improving the overall health and appearance of the teeth. Some of the reasons for having dental bridges include the following:
Restructuring the jawline. Tooth loss can affect your look in many ways. Losing your teeth can alter the structure of your jawline. This can change the facial structure as well in a negative way. Dental bridges help to correct this sort of dental issue.
Making you smile again. Dental problems lead to insecurities that affect people’s appearances. For some people, their jobs depend on the quality of their smile. Dental bridges restore your smile and remove social anxieties an unattractive smile may cause. If you don’t like to smile in public or cover your mouth when you smile, get a dental bridge for the front teeth.
Improves your confidence. Dental issues that affect smile and speech can reduce people’s confidence. For instance, a motivational speaker makes a living by speaking to an audience. The ability to communicate effectively depends on the quality of speech. Certain dental issues, especially on the front teeth, affect speech which leads to loss of confidence. If you have this issue, you need a dental bridge for your front teeth.
Improved chewing. One of the most overlooked difficulties dental issues bring is the inability to chew food comfortably. For people with some dental problems, chewing food can be uncomfortable. For example, biting food becomes problematic when the front teeth, mainly for biting, are missing. With dental bridges for your front teeth, you can improve both biting and chewing.
Dental bridges are for covering holes temporarily or permanently with artificial teeth. The benefits of dental bridges cannot be overemphasized. See a dentist near you for a consultation today.