Dental Bridge FAQ
 It is important to consider replacing lost teeth. When you have lost an arch of teeth, you can choose between fixed bridges and implant-supported bridges. Both ways can restore your teeth, depending on your condition, your specific needs, and your goals. Paying us a visit at Brian K. Rounds, DDS allows our dental team to have a detailed inspection of your oral health and help you determine the best option for your teeth replacement. All bridges work similarly, but there are differences based on the kind of support they are given on the gum line for stability.What is a Dental Bridge?A dental bridge is a false tooth that fills the space left by a missing tooth. Bridges can be made from different types of materials, including alloys and gold, but most of them are made of porcelain to mimic your natural tooth color. Bridges enhance the beauty and function of your teeth. This makes it easier for you to speak and chew your food more effectively. Visit Brian K. Rounds, DDS to get more details about dental bridges. Who Needs Dental Bridges?Dental bridges are suitable for people who have missing teeth. The main causes of tooth loss include tooth decay, injuries, gum disease, and congenital conditions, and the bridges fill the gaps between the teeth. A dental bridge can only be placed if you have healthy teeth on both sides of the gap. What Are the Advantages of Dental Bridges?A missing tooth, or multiple teeth, can endanger the general health of your teeth. Dental bridges can help solve some of these problems. For example, a bridge can reinstate your chewing ability that was previously unavailable. A dental bridge also corrects your voice and pronunciation by conforming to the shape of your face. A bridge protects the remaining teeth by ensuring they are correctly aligned, stopping them from shifting. The most important benefit of a dental bridge is that it restores your smile, boosting your self-esteem. What Are the Different Types of Dental Bridges?Dental bridges are classified into these types: traditional fixed bridges, Maryland dental bridges, implant-supported bridges, and cantilever bridges. Traditional Fixed BridgesTraditional fixed bridges are the most prevalent type of dental bridge on the market. They are made using porcelain fused metals and ceramics, among other materials. Maryland BridgesMaryland bridges are typically used to replace missing front teeth. Unlike traditional bridges that use crowns on the abutment teeth, Maryland bridges employ a metal or porcelain framework attached to your teeth. Cantilever BridgesA cantilever bridge has pontic(s) that are secured by crowns sealed to one side of the remaining tooth. Implant Supported BridgesImplant-supported bridges utilize implants instead of crowns or frameworks. Every missing tooth is replaced with a surgically embedded dental implant that secures the bridge. How to Care for Your Dental BridgesDental bridges are permanent, but they do not last as long as dentures. Dental bridges can survive for over 10 years with proper maintenance and care. Bridges are expected to be more durable in the future due to technology and material developments. Brushing and flossing your teeth on a daily basis will extend the life of your dental bridge. We will provide cleaning and flossing instructions for your new bridge. Changing your diet will also have a significant impact on the durability of your bridges. Avoid consuming sticky chocolates, nuts, and popcorn as they may damage your abutment tooth or bridge. Visit us for more tips on how to care for your dental bridges. What Are the Differerences Between Fixed Bridges and Implant Supported Bridges?Fixed BridgesFor this type of tooth restoration, an initial visit to the dentist will help in the evaluation of your oral health. If you are fit for the treatment, the dentist will start by preparing the two teeth that will act as abutments to the prosthetic teeth. They are trimmed by the removal of the enamel so that enough room is left for the crowns of the bridge to fit in. Impressions of your teeth will be taken to the lab for the production of your custom-fit bridges. Before the bridges are ready, you will be provided with temporary bridges to protect the implants. When your permanent bridges are ready, they will be cemented firmly on the trimmed teeth, with the artificial teeth lying on the gap left by the missing teeth. Implant Supported BridgesAn examination is conducted first to check the state of your jawbone and your overall health. The bone beneath your gums where the implant is to be placed has to be in good condition in terms of bone density and volume. It will ensure the implant is stable in the bone. If you have enough bone mass and good oral health, a surgical process will be used to insert the implants. After it is put in place, the gum and bone will be left to heal until the implant has fused with the bone. The implants are usually made of titanium, as it bonds to the bone without adverse reactions. Implants that support bridges are fixed at two ends of where the bridge will be fitted. In cases where the whole set of teeth is being replaced, about four to six implants can be inserted into a single jaw. During the healing time, temporary bridges will be used to protect the operated area. Finally, after the healing, the permanent bridge will be attached to the implants firmly. Important ConsiderationsDental implant bridges are preferred over traditional fixed bridges, however, there are some factors to consider, including healing duration and cost. Dental implants cost more compared to regular fixed bridges. Even so, they can survive a lifetime when you ensure adequate care. Traditional fixed bridges, on the other hand, have a lifespan of about five to 15 years. Implant bridges take several months to complete because of the healing process. Again, implant-supported bridges are stronger than traditional bridges. For a clear understanding of the different types of dental bridges, their differences, similarities, benefits, and risks involved, visit us at Brian K. Rounds, DDS. Call us at (360) 764-5236 to schedule an appointment. |
