What are the Main Types of Dental Bridges?

What are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth, and they can last for many years if you take care of them properly. There are several different dental bridges, each with its benefits and drawbacks.

Tooth bridges replace lost teeth and help keep the shape of your smile intact. A dental bridge can be made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. They’re typically made for patients with two healthy adjacent teeth on either side of the space left by the lost teeth.

Dental Bridges Vs. Implants

The primary distinction between dental bridges and implants is how they’re supported. Implants are placed directly into the jawbone, while bridges are anchored on either side of the gap.

Dental implants have many advantages over a dental bridge:

• They last longer because of implant materials.
• They feel more natural than a traditional fixed dental bridge because they fit securely within your mouth and don’t move around as much as other types of restorations do.
• An implant stops the bone loss effectively compared to a bridge.

Which Type of Tooth Bridge Is Ideal For You?

The best dental bridge depends on several factors, like how many teeth are missing and where they’re located.

Traditional Dental Bridges

These bridges are supported using two adjacent teeth. You must have healthy teeth for the bridges to be fixed.

Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges replace missing teeth and provide support for dental implants. The tooth implant is inserted into the jawbone, and the bridge is then attached to it.

Cantilever Bridges

If your teeth are missing on one side of your mouth, a cantilever bridge is the best option for you. A cantilever bridge is used when natural teeth are available on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. The crown placed on the abutment tooth is called a cantilever crown, and it acts as an anchor for the artificial teeth.

Maryland Dental Bridges

The Maryland bridge uses two adjacent teeth on either side of the gap created by the missing tooth or teeth. However, instead of the dental crowns, the bridges use porcelain or metal framework for support.

How are the Dental Bridges Fixed?

The first step involves preparing the teeth to support a dental bridge. Our dentist in Plano, TX, will typically do this by removing a small amount of enamel from your teeth, which is necessary to be cemented together.

Next, a mold will be made from your mouth and sent to a lab where your bridge will be custom-made for you.

Our dentist will use resin or cement to attach the temporary replacement teeth over your existing teeth on either side of where your missing tooth was located. Our dentist will then polish and check for proper fit before sending you home with a new permanent bridge!

While some bridges are made to stay in place permanently, others may need periodic adjustments as they settle into their final position over time. Our dentist will provide instructions on how often these adjustments should be performed to maintain the optimal appearance and function of your new smile!

How Long Do the Dental Bridges Last?

As a general rule, dental bridges can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. Factors such as age and lifestyle come into play here, but your bridge should last quite a while if you take proper care of your oral health (such as brushing, flossing, and seeing the dentist for regular checkups).

Implants are another option—they’re metal fixtures that are surgically attached to the jawbone with screws to anchor false teeth permanently. Implants may last a lifetime if taken care of properly, though they will need regular maintenance over time. Again: If you want longevity from either type of prosthesis, make sure that you go for regular checkups!

Schedule an Appointment

Are you looking for dental bridges in Plano, TX? Call us or schedule an appointment with SS Dental for more information about tooth bridges in 75093 and what you can expect during the procedure.