Dental Bridges

Dental bridges fill the gaps left by one or more missing teeth. They serve as an alternative to partial dentures, helping with speaking/pronunciation, eating/chewing, and appearance. Although there are different types, dental bridges are usually formed by supporting crowns on either side of the missing or replaced tooth/teeth.

What are the parts of a dental bridge, and what is one made out of?

The abutment teeth are the teeth on either side of the gap. A crown is placed on each one and they are used to support the missing tooth or teeth replacement. The false teeth added between the abutments are called pontics. The pontics are fused to one another and fill in the missing area and are attached to the crowns. Bridges can be made out of gold, metal alloys, or porcelain. Bridges that are porcelain are often used for missing front teeth to create a more natural appearance. Sometimes, instead of abutment crowns, the bridges are anchored to a dental implant.

What are the types of bridges?

• Traditional fixed bridge. This is the most common types, and includes the pontics fused together and then attached to abutment crowns.
• Implant-supported bridge. An implant for each missing tooth is put in each gap in your jaw bone in a surgical procedure. In a subsequent procedure, the bridge, containing the pontics, is placed over the implants.
• Resin-bonded bridge (AKA Maryland dental bridge). This uses porcelain or metal to replace (usually) front teeth. The replacements are bonded to the other surrounding teeth surrounding the gap.
• Cantilever bridge. This type is less stable and has fallen out of common use. When there are not two natural teeth on either side of the gap, the pontics are connected to one bridged tooth on one side.

Why does someone need a dental bridge?

The most common reasons that people need dental bridges are missing teeth from gum disease, tooth decay, and injury. When teeth are displaced or missing, it causes a variety of problems. These include issues with biting down and the parts of the upper and lower jaws coming together. There may also be pain when chewing or closing the mouth. They also improve appearance and self confidence for those whose teeth are missing.

A dental bridge will work best for you if:

• You have good overall health, including healthy teeth and a strong bone structure to support the bridge.
• Perform regular oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing. Thus you minimize the risk of post-surgical infection as well as the bridge area becoming infected.
• Are missing one or more permanent teeth.
• Are prepared to maintain the dental bridge with extra oral hygiene care.

Advantages and disadvantages

Pros

• Restores a natural and healthy structure to the mouth and face.
• Restores ability to use the mouth normally, including:
  • Speaking properly
  • Chewing properly
  • Smiling and socializing.
• The bridge prevents nearby teeth from moving into the empty space created by tooth loss.

Cons

• The bridge’s structure can be hurt if the abutment teeth are damaged (either presently or in the future).
• Bacteria may build up underneath the crowns if they do not fit properly.
• The abutment crowns may change your tooth structure negatively, affecting bite and face structure.
• The abutment teeth may be weakened by the bridge and require eventual replacement.
• The abutment teeth may not be strong enough to support the bridge.

Dental bridge procedure

After you have been examined and your dentist has agreed a bridge is right for you, the procedure will go something like the following.

Preparation

The abutment teeth are prepared. Parts of the enamel and dentin will be removed from the abutment teeth so they better fit into the crowns.

During the procedure, your care provider will also take x-rays, use a small camera, or make impressions of your teeth. This helps the lab making your replacement teeth use a bridge that properly replaces your missing teeth without negatively affecting your bite.

Finally, you will be given a temporary bridge to protect the open spaces where your teeth are missing.

Installation

This is the installation of the permanent bridge. The temporary bridge is removed and the permanent one is installed. During this time, adjustments may be made to that bridge to ensure a healthy and natural bite/facial structure is the result.

Have questions about getting a dental bridge?

Josey Lane Dentistry has been serving the Carrollton Texas area for nearly 2 decades, specializing in oral surgery. If you are curious about our services involving dental bridges don’t hesitate to contact us. We can help decide if a bridge or dental implant is right for you, as well as what type of bridge. We can also answer questions regarding what the timeline for your surgery will be like and the recovery process.