Dental bridges can transform your smile by replacing missing or damaged teeth. On average, these appliances typically last between ten to 20 years before needing replacement.
About Dental Bridges
A bridge is a restorative dental appliance that replaces missing teeth. Typically, dentists use them to replace one to three adjacent missing teeth.
Bridges consist of supporting structures, which may be neighboring crowns, implant crowns, or metal/ceramic wings that support pontics or artificial teeth. The pontics sit between the supports, creating a complete smile.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Create an aesthetically pleasing smile
- Prevent adjacent teeth from moving and causing issues with alignment and dental bite
- Improve oral health by eliminating gaps between teeth where plaque and food can collect
- Long-lasting
Types of Dental Bridges
Conventional Bridge
A conventional bridge receives support from healthy crowned teeth on either side of the gap.
Maryland Bridge
Maryland bridges sit between two teeth and connect to metal or ceramic "wings" that secure the bridge.
Cantilever Bridge
Cantilever bridges have support only at one end. These bridges put more strain on the connecting crowns.
Implant-Supported Bridge
Many dentists prefer implant-supported bridges because they are far sturdier and last longer than conventional bridges. Dental implants replace the teeth on either side of the gap.
Good Candidates for Dental Bridges
Healthy gums are essential to be a good candidate for a dental bridge. For a crown-supported bridge, you need two healthy teeth on either side of the gap that are strong enough to hold crowns.
An implant-supported bridge requires sufficient jawbone density, but you can likely receive a bone graft from an oral surgeon to bulk up your bone mass if necessary.
The Dental Bridge Process
Dental bridges take only a few appointments to install. During the first appointment, the dentist takes a set of digital or physical impressions and designs your final bridge, sending the designs to the lab.
When your bridge arrives, the dentist will ensure a perfect fit and cement the restoration in place. It may take a few weeks to become accustomed to wearing your bridge.
How to Help Your Dental Bridge Last Longer
Avoid chewing on hard objects like fingernails, ice, and pens. Do not use your teeth as tools. Ensure you keep all dental appointments to check on your bridge and make sure it continues to fit correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
What should I do if my dental bridge falls out?
See your dentist as soon as possible to have it cemented back in. If you leave the gap in your teeth alone, they may begin to shift.
When is an implant-supported bridge preferred?
Dentists recommend implant-supported bridges for patients who do not have strong teeth on either side of the gap. Implants bond with the jawbone and create a rock-solid attachment point.
Call Paramount Dental Arts
If you feel unhappy with the brightness of your teeth, don't reach for an over-the-counter activated charcoal product. Call us at 973-777-1772 to schedule a safe, quick, and easy teeth whitening appointment today.