Dental Bridges
When a dentist creates a bridge, they close a gap in your teeth by inserting one or more false teeth. The false tooth or teeth are supported on either side by crowns that fit over your existing healthy teeth to keep the false tooth in place. Most dental bridges are made of porcelain, so they blend in naturally with your other teeth, although you can have a bridge made of other materials such as metal, if you prefer.
There are four basic types of dental bridges, and the type you get will depend on what the dental bridge is for and your specific treatment plan. They include:
- Traditional bridges — One or more false teeth is held in place by dental crowns on either side that cover your existing teeth. This is the most common type of dental bridge.
- Cantilever bridges — A false tooth with a crown attaches to only one adjacent tooth. The advantage of this type of bridge is that it only requires one healthy tooth next to the missing tooth.
- Maryland bridges — One or more false teeth attach to adjacent teeth using metal or porcelain on the back of the teeth instead of a crown.
- Implant-supported bridges — Dental implants rather than crowns on your existing teeth support the bridge. This usually requires two procedures, one to secure the implants and a later one to place the bridge.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are a common replacement for a missing tooth. Missing teeth can cause significant long-term oral health and other consequences, including:
- Difficulty chewing food that leads to nutritional deficiencies
- A sunken appearance in your cheeks
- Self-consciousness about smiling or speaking
- Difficulty speaking properly and pronouncing words
- Excess force on your surrounding teeth that have to work harder when you eat and chew
- Healthy teeth that move out of position
Getting dental bridges is a relatively simple procedure often covered by insurance plans. They are generally durable and can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years if you care for them properly and practice good oral hygiene. There are also other options for missing teeth that have become common in recent years, such as dental implants, so it’s important to talk to your dentist about all your options so you can decide which is best for you.
Visit Young Family Dental Today
If you are missing one or more teeth and want to know what your options are to repair your smile and restore function in your mouth, schedule an appointment at one of our five Young Family Dental clinics in West Jordan, Riverton, American Fork, Saratoga Springs or Orem today. Our general and cosmetic dentists can provide you with information about the benefits of dental bridges, as well as other available options to replace missing teeth.
