Tooth loss can occur due to various reasons, leading to concerns not only about appearance but also oral health. This is where the dental bridge comes into play, offering an effective solution to restore both function and aesthetics. In this comprehensive blog, we will reveal dental bridges, exploring their types, benefits, potential drawbacks, and comparisons with other dental treatments.
What is a Dental Bridge?
To fill in the tooth gap that has occurred as a result of losses, the dental bridge is positioned between two teeth that are situated on the tooth’s right and left sides. The other two teeth are shortened during this procedure, and a dental bridge is used to fill the previous gap.
Over time, tooth loss may result in the following issues:
- deterioration of the chin and facial structures,
- the jawbone resorbing,
- speech impairment.
Therefore, it is important to repair any cavities that result from tooth loss as soon as possible.
Types of Dental Bridges
Various types of dental bridges are employed by dentists, chosen based on individual oral health objectives. The principal categories encompass:
Conventional Dental Bridge
This is the most widespread kind of dental bridge. It incorporates dental crowns affixed to both termini, coupled with pontics (artificial teeth) interspersed in between. A dental practitioner secures the crowns to your natural teeth (abutments) bordering the gap, while the artificial teeth (pontics) fill the vacant space. Conventional dental bridges are opted for when intact natural teeth are present on either side of the void.
Cantilever Dental Bridge
Resembling the traditional bridge, a cantilever bridge, has only one crown at one extremity rather than both. Consequently, when the dentist attaches the bridge to the abutment tooth, the synthetic tooth (pontic) projects across or extends over the aperture. Cantilever bridges are employed in situations where natural teeth exist solely on one side of the opening. Due to their structure, cantilever bridges possess diminished strength compared to their traditional counterparts.
Maryland Dental Bridge
Also known as a resin-bonded bridge, the Maryland bridge diverges from conventional designs by employing metallic wings instead of crowns to anchor the bridge. Dentists fix these wings to the rear portions of adjacent teeth to establish the bridge’s stability. Primarily, Maryland bridges are used to supplant front teeth, as they are not sufficiently resilient to endure the masticatory forces exerted on posterior teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridge
A bridge supported by dental implants, as opposed to natural teeth, rests on top of it similar to a normal bridge. Dental implants are tiny threaded pins that replace lost tooth roots. Dental implants must fuse (integrate) with the jawbone before a bridge may be attached to them. This integration process, on average, necessitates three to six months for completion, although the duration might be extended based on individual circumstances. Implant-supported bridges are favored by dentists when three or more consecutive teeth are absent.
What is the advantage of dental bridges?
Compared to implants, bridges are more affordable. A dental bridge costs less than a dental implant since it needs less upkeep and is less obvious. One of the key considerations for some patients choosing bridges over implants is cost.
Bone grafting is not necessary. If a tooth has been missing for some time, the jaw bone that used to support it may have degenerated or resorbed. By placing a piece of artificial or animal bone below the gums, a surgical procedure known as bone grafting is used to strengthen the jaw bone. Bridges don’t need it; it is only necessary in implant treatment.
Compared to dentures, bridges offer several benefits. Dentures are rarely recommended by dentists if the patient still has a sufficient number of healthy teeth. In contrast to dentures, which must be secured to the gums with a temporary sealant that is less stable, bridges may be supported by healthy teeth.
Another advantage of dental bridge is that bridge installation takes less time than implant placement, in part because bone grafting is not necessary.
What are the disadvantages of a dental bridge?
Traditional and cantilever bridges necessitate tooth modifications. Dentists must remove a little piece of enamel from healthy nearby teeth during implantation to ensure that the dental crowns fit properly. Patients may experience future issues with these teeth.
Bridges cannot stop bone loss. A person’s jawbone starts to weaken when one or more of their teeth are missing, which results in face drooping, tooth movement, and more tooth loss. The only option to reduce bone loss and encourage bone regrowth is to replace the tooth root with a dental implant. Bridges cause the jawbone to continue losing density since they are positioned above the gum line.
Implants stay far longer than bridges. Bridges have a maximum life of roughly 15 years; dental implants are predicted to last more than 25 years.
Dental Bridge Problems
A dental bridge that is improperly fitted to the patient’s mouth occurs when the dentist makes a bad impression or the bridge is not produced by accepted industry standards. If you have a dental bridge issue, it might cause discomfort and tissue damage.
Tooth decay can occur if the conventional bridge’s cover is not fitted firmly enough, allowing germs to enter and start attacking the tooth. Patients start to exhibit symptoms including soreness and discoloration as a result of tooth decay.
Following a dental bridge installation, considerable sensitivity is typical. It’s a dangerous indication, though, if it starts happening months or even years after it was installed. Possibly there has been degradation or damage.
Caps and pontics will never be as durable as natural teeth, despite modern dental advancements, and breaking a bridge if you chew on something hard is a definite risk.
Dental Bridge vs. Implant
Compared to bridges, dental implants often last a lot longer. Additionally, implants retain existing bone and lessen the possibility of future bone loss.
However, everyone has different requirements, objectives, and tastes when it comes to oral health. Speak with your dentist about the best course of treatment for you.
Dental Bridge vs. Crown
A dental bridge replaces a lost tooth or teeth, whereas a crown covers an existing tooth. Crowns and bridges are interconnected dental treatments. Your dentist can offer further guidance to determine the most suitable option for your needs. With proper maintenance, both can endure for a lifetime.
Restore Your Smile With Dental Bridges
When it comes to restoring your smile, dental bridges stand as a beacon of hope. These innovative solutions offer not just a physical transformation but also a boost to your self-assurance and overall quality of life. By bridging the gap left by missing teeth, dental bridges help the way for improved oral health and a radiant smile.
Don’t let gaps in your smile hold you back any longer. Take the first step today, contact us at +90 (536) 934 6524, and witness the transformation that dental bridges can bring to your life. Your smile, your confidence, and your future await.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a dental bridge last?
How long does a dental bridge last?
A dental bridge typically lasts five to fifteen years. With the right upkeep and care, some can endure much longer. Dentists may refer to them as "permanent bridges." They are permanent in that a dentist is the only one who can take them out.
What is better a bridge or an implant?
What is better a bridge or an implant?
While dental implants don't require treatment on the neighboring teeth, bridges do. Bone loss may continue unabatedly since bridges do not restore the lost tooth's root.
How painful is a dental bridge?
How painful is a dental bridge?
Using a local anesthetic while your teeth are being prepared and when your dentist is taking an imprint makes the bridge operation painless. Analgesic use for pain management following the procedure is frequently unneeded.
Does a dental bridge ever feel normal?
Does a dental bridge ever feel normal?
Even while it may only take two weeks, some people may need more time to adjust to a dental bridge. To provide a seamless appearance, the bridges rely on the supporting teeth that are still there. Although it could take some time for you to get used to the dental bridges, in no time at all, they will feel completely natural.
Can you sleep with a dental bridge?
Can you sleep with a dental bridge?
Dental bridges that are temporary and removable must be taken out before sleeping. This is due to the possibility of jaw muscles being overworked by detachable bridges. Although fixed bridges supported by dental implants are not removable, they support the teeth and gums in the same way that natural teeth do.
Can teeth move with a bridge?
Can teeth move with a bridge?
If they are not placed properly, dental implants and bridges may cause your teeth to move from their optimal position. This is due to the pressure that these procedures create on the neighboring teeth, which, if not well maintained, may eventually cause them to shift out of position.
How many teeth can go on a bridge?
How many teeth can go on a bridge?
Although a dental bridge may replace a single tooth, it is frequently used to repair two, three, four, or more teeth. The bridge is typically less sturdy and requires more crowns to support it as there are more missing teeth.
