What is a Dental Bridge?

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If you are missing one or multiple teeth and are not a good candidate for implants, you might find that a dental bridge in wilmington north carolina is the best treatment for you! A dental bridge uses fake teeth attached to crowns to restore your smile. A dental bridge is a fixed prosthesis that is permanently cemented in place. They can be made with porcelain, ceramic, or porcelain fused to metal.

There are a few types of dental bridges available. They include:

  • Traditional bridge: The most common type of bridge, a traditional bridge is fabricated with pontics and crowns. However many teeth are being replaced is how many pontics your bridge will have. The crowns are on each end of the bridge and are cemented onto the teeth adjacent to the space to be filled. The pontic floats between them but extends to the gums so that it appears to be a regular tooth.
  • Cantilever bridges: This type of bridge is used if there are healthy teeth only on one side of the space that the bridge can be affixed to. They are not as secure and can cause damage to the crowned tooth/teeth by allowing too much pressure to be applied.
  • Maryland bridges: A Maryland bridge uses a metal framework to hold a pontic tooth in place. The framework has “wings” on each side of the pontic and is attached only to the back of the adjacent teeth. This type is only ideal for the anterior teeth.
  • Implant bridges: By far the most durable type of bridge available, and implant bridge relies on implants placed in the jaw bone to hold your bridge in place. Not everyone is a candidate for an implant bridge and they are considerably more costly and require healing time.

Why do I need a dental bridge?

A dental bridge helps to restore the form and function of your mouth as well as your smile. Without replacing missing teeth, your bite can change as the teeth around the space begin to shift trying to fill it! This can lead to jaw bone deterioration and can cause you to lose previously healthy teeth. As your jaw bone deteriorates, your facial structure will begin to change and you could lose the ability to speak and chew properly.

How long does a dental bridge last?

The key to making any dental restoration last as long as possible is taking care of it. With good oral hygiene and regular checkups with your dentist, a dental bridge can last decades.

How do I care for my dental bridge?

Dental work is never cheap so it is important to make sure that you get the most out of your restoration. Your dentist will show you how to clean around and under your bridge using floss threaders and they may advise that you invest in a WaterPik to improve your oral hygiene routine.

Make sure you see your dentist twice a year for your regular cleaning and check-up so that they can examine your bridge and make sure that everything is in tip-top shape. Your dentist may also advise that you get a nightguard to help protect your bridge from clenching and grinding while you sleep.

More Information on Dental Bridges : How Much Do Dental Bridges Cost?