What Is A Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is an artificial tooth or teeth that are used to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. This type of restoration is typically made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap (known as abutment teeth) and a false tooth/teeth in between (known as pontics). The pontics are attached to the crowns with metal wings or framework, forming a bridge-like structure that is bonded into place permanently.
A dental bridge offers many benefits for those who have lost one or more teeth. It not only improves the appearance of your smile and boosts confidence but also prevents adjacent teeth from drifting towards the empty space in your mouth, helps maintain proper jaw alignment, and prevents any difficulty with speaking or chewing that may arise from having missing teeth. Additionally, because bridges are custom-made for each patient’s mouth, they look natural and feel comfortable once in place.
There are three main types of bridges available: traditional fixed bridges, cantilever bridges, and Maryland bonded bridges. Traditional fixed bridges are made up of two crowns that hold a false tooth in between them while cantilever bridges involve one crown holding a false tooth in place. Maryland bonded bridges feature porcelain or plastic “wings” that attach to existing teeth on either side of the gap; this type is typically used when there is not enough support from adjacent natural teeth for traditional fixed bridge work.
