Dental Bridges: What Are They and How Do They Work?

Dental Bridges: What Are They and How Do They Work

If you have missing teeth, your dentist in Fairview will use dental bridges to fill the gaps. An artificial tooth (pontic) supported by the teeth on either side of the gap is called a bridge. Pontics can be constructed of a variety of materials, including gold, although they are commonly made of porcelain to blend in with your natural teeth. Continue reading to find out more.

Dental bridges are a common and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, restoring not only the aesthetics of your smile but also the functionality of your bite. In this blog post, we’ll explore what dental bridges are, how they work, and why they might be the right choice for you if you’re dealing with gaps in your smile.

Understanding Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are artificial tooth replacements intended to fill the space left by one or more lost teeth. They consist of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are anchored in place by dental crowns or implants. Bridges can be made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of both, depending on your specific needs and preferences.

One reason some individuals prefer dental bridges over implants is that they do not require any surgical treatments. Installing them is a simple process, and dentists can offer sedatives to individuals who have dental anxieties to make their appointment more comfortable.

The dentist begins by obtaining an impression of the patient’s mouth, which is then sent to a lab, where the bridge and crowns that will be used as abutments are created. The dentist near you will administer anaesthetics to the patient and prepare the two teeth that will be crowned by removing any enamel that would hinder the crowns from fitting properly. Typically, the patient is supplied with a temporary crown and sent on their way. When the crowns and bridge are completed, the patient is scheduled for a follow-up appointment. During the second appointment, the temporary crowns will be removed and the customized crowns and bridge will be implanted.

Types of Dental Bridges

There are several types of dental bridges in Fairview, each designed to address different situations. Traditional bridges are the most common, involving the placement of crowns on the adjacent teeth to support the pontic. Cantilever bridges are used when there’s only one adjacent tooth available for support, while Maryland bridges use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth.

Process of Getting Dental Bridges

Getting dental bridges typically involves multiple appointments. During the initial visit, your dentist will examine your oral health, take impressions of your teeth, and prepare the abutment teeth (adjacent teeth that will support the bridge). Temporary bridges may be placed while the permanent bridge is being fabricated. In the final appointment, the permanent bridge is carefully adjusted and cemented into place.

How Dental Bridges Work

Getting dental bridges near you works by literally bridging the gap created by missing teeth. The pontic, or artificial tooth, fills the space, restoring the appearance of a complete smile. The abutment teeth provide support and stability to hold the bridge securely in place. Beyond cosmetic benefits, dental bridges also help maintain the alignment of surrounding teeth, prevent shifting, and distribute bite forces evenly.

Advantages of Dental Bridges

  1. Aesthetics: Bridges restore the natural appearance of your smile.
  2. Functionality: They improve chewing and speaking abilities affected by missing teeth.
  3. Stability: Bridges are a stable and durable solution for tooth replacement.
  4. Prevents Shifting: By filling the gap, bridges prevent neighbouring teeth from shifting out of place.

Conclusion:

If you’re dealing with the challenges of missing teeth, dental bridges offer a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution. Consult with your dentist to determine the most suitable type of bridge for your specific case, ensuring a restored smile and improved oral function.

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