Cosmetic dentists are known for performing different dental procedures. Among these procedures is the creation of dental bridges. What is a dental bridge? A dental bridge is composed of 2 crowns meant for the teeth on the sides of the gap. The two teeth that are anchored to each other are known as abutment teeth and there is a false tooth or teeth in between them. The false teeth are known as pontics which can be made of alloys, porcelain, gold or a mixture of these. Implants or natural teeth support the dental bridges.
Dental bridges are important because they can help you restore your smile. They can also restore your ability to speak and chew properly, while at the same time, maintaining your face’s shape. Moreover, because they will replace your missing teeth, the forces in your bite will be distributed properly. And, they can help in maintaining the position of your remaining teeth so that they will not drift out of position.
If you are planning to use a dental bridge, it is important for you to know its types.
Fixed Bridge
This type has a crown at any of its ends and it also contains one or even more false teeth which are attached between them. This is considered very durable and thus, it can be used on any portion of the mouth.
The crowns of this type slip over your natural teeth which are found right on the left and right sides of the gaps. The false teeth on the other hand rest on your gums.
Resin-Bonded Dental Bridge
This is also named as Maryland bonded dental bridge and it contains false teeth which fill a gap within the mouth. When compared to a fixed bridge, this does not use crowns to anchor the false teeth. Instead, in this type, metal bands are used to attach the false teeth. These metal bands are glued to the neighboring teeth.
Using this type of dental bridge is a good option when you have anchoring teeth which are still in good condition that they don’t need restoration through the use of crowns. This is normally used for front teeth because this is where stress is minimal. Also, in this part, the metal bands can easily be hidden behind your teeth. The bridge is not as secure when compared to a fixed one, but it really is a less invasive procedure.
Cantilever Bridge
This is quite similar to the fixed type. However, the difference is that a cantilever dental bridge does not anchor to your teeth on each side of the gap. Rather, it anchors to one tooth only. This is mostly used on the back part of the mouth because this is usually where there is only one tooth which it can be anchored.
If you have missing teeth which create gaps in your mouth, you can opt to have a dental bridge. Make sure to consult with your dentist to determine which type is best for your case. If you are in San Diego, do not hesitate to visit Dr. Lynne A. March. We will be happy to serve you.
Posted in: Bridges