Dental Bridge: Types and Costs

What are the Benefits of Dental Bridges? 

Dental bridges have several advantages, such as:

• Restored aesthetics
• Enhanced speech and chewing capacity
• Serving facial structure
• Bite force distribution
• Convenience for cleaning 
• Can be completed in a single visit

Continue reading to know more about the types of dental bridges. 

Dental Bridge Types

Typical dental bridge types include traditional dental bridges, cantilever bridges, Maryland bonded bridges, and implant-supported bridges. Every variety, from fixed dental bridges to removable dental bridges , has unique qualities and advantages for giving patients various requirements and oral health issues options. 

Traditional Dental Bridge 

A conventional dental bridge comprises one or more prosthetic teeth (pontics) secured in place by dental crowns on the teeth next to the gap. Typically, the abutments for the bridge are created by molding the natural teeth into crowns. The most prevalent type of dental bridges, traditional bridges, are appropriate when sound teeth are on each side of the gap.

Cantilever Dental Bridge 

Like a traditional dental bridge, a cantilever bridge is reinforced by a dental crown when one side of the teeth opens. This form of bridge is utilized when there is only one healthy tooth nearby or when the lost tooth is towards the end of the dental arch.

Maryland Bonded Bridge 

A Maryland bridge sometimes referred to as a resin-bonded or a Maryland bridge, is made of a metal or porcelain framework with prosthetic teeth attached to the backs of the neighboring teeth with resin or adhesive. This bridge is less intrusive because the surrounding teeth need not be reshaped, although it may only be appropriate in some situations. It is commonly used as a dental bridge front teeth .

Implant-Supported Bridge

A dental bridge supported by dental bridge implants rather than natural teeth is called an implant-supported bridge. A bridge is linked to dental implants after they have been surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace lost teeth, offering a solid and long-lasting alternative. When several teeth are missing or have insufficient support from natural teeth, implant-supported bridges are the best option.

Dental Bridge Procedure 

The process of placing a dental bridge typically consists of multiple steps, including:

1. Initial consultation: During your initial visit, your Dentist will examine your mouth to establish whether a dental bridge is the best treatment. 
2. Teeth preparation: The adjacent teeth that will serve as abutments for a regular or cantilever dental bridge will be altered to provide room for the dental crowns attached to them.
3. Taking impressions: Your Dentist will take impressions of your teeth to make a dental bridge specifically built to match your natural teeth' color, shape, and size.
4. Placement of a temporary bridge: Your Dentist may place a temporary bridge to cover the prepared teeth and fill the space left by the lost teeth while your permanent dental bridge is being created. 
5. Final stage: Once your permanent dental bridge is completed, your Dentist will inspect the fit and aesthetic of the bridge. To guarantee an appropriate fit and bite, adjustments could be made. A bond or cement will secure the bridge if the fit and appearance are good.

How does a Dental Bridge Work?

In a dental bridge, a prosthetic tooth (pontic) attached to dental crowns or implants fills the space left by one or more missing teeth. The abutment teeth, the teeth on each side of the gap that is immediately adjacent, support the bridge. While the pontics span the space and restore the appearance and function of the missing teeth, the dental crowns are typically positioned on the abutment teeth and cemented or bonded in place.