This popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, dental bridges restore both function and aesthetics to a smile. For those considering a dental bridge, it is essential to understand the different types available, the benefits they offer, and the process involved.
What is a Dental Bridge?
Before receiving a dental treatment it is important to know what it is and entails. It is a device used to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. Anchored to the surrounding natural teeth or dental implants, the bridge consists of crowns, known as pontics, that replace the missing teeth.
The pontics are crafted from materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal, selected to match the color and texture of the patient’s natural teeth.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are three main types of dental bridges, each offering its own set of advantages depending on the specific dental needs and patient goals:
- Traditional Dental Bridges: This is the most common type of bridge, involving the creation of a crown for the teeth on either side of the gap with a pontic in between. Commonly made from porcelain fused to metal or ceramics, they are ideal for patients with strong and healthy natural teeth on both sides of the missing tooth or teeth.
- Bonded Bridges: A resin-bonded bridge, uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. This type of bridge does minimal alteration of adjacent teeth making it a smart choice for patients needing a dental bridge for missing front teeth.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: Unlike other types, this bridge is supported by dental implants rather than natural teeth. It is known for being the most stable and durable option due to the rootlike function caused by implants.
This option is great for patients with multiple missing teeth or those who cannot have a traditional bridge due to the lack of healthy surrounding teeth.
McCullough Dental is pleased to provide patients with solutions for any situation.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer a range of benefits that extend beyond merely filling a gap in the smile, including:
- Restoring Function
- Preventing Shifting
- Enhancing Aesthetics
- Maintaining Facial Structure
- Providing a Quick Solution
Complete oral well-being has more than one dimension. Dental bridges support more than the missing tooth or teeth they replace.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Patients need to know what to expect to reduce dental anxiety, be better prepared for their treatment, and be able to make decisions based on the treatment before it starts. Here is a general overview of the process:
Initial Consultation
During this stage, the dentist will assess the patient’s oral health, discuss options, and take impressions or digital scans of their teeth. This is the point where the treatment plan will be created and prepped.
Impressions
Once the teeth have been prepared an impression will be taken to create a model for the bridge, which is then either sent to a dental lab or made in-house to create the custom bridge.
Temporary Bridge
If the bridge is sent off to the dental lab then the dentist may place a temporary bridge to protect the exposed teeth and gums.
Fitting the Permanent Bridge
Once the bridge is ready, the temporary bridge is removed, and the permanent one is fitted. Adjustments are made to ensure a proper fit, comfort, and bite.
Final Adjustments and Follow-Up
After fitting, the dentist will check the bridge during a follow-up appointment to ensure it is comfortable and functioning correctly.
Get Dental Bridges Today!
For patients wanting a reliable and effective way to replace missing teeth that offers both functional and aesthetic benefits, dental bridges are a great option.
To better understand the different types of bridges, what to expect during the procedure, or start treatment, patients can call McCullough Dental to schedule an appointment today!