What is used to get across a gap -- a bridge of
course! A dental bridge spans the gap between one or more missing teeth giving
you a better
smile.
Your teeth not only help you chew and speak correctly, but also contribute
substantially to your
smile and overall appearance (your teeth give form to your
face and without them, your facial features can be significantly affected.) If
lost teeth are not restored, other teeth often shift, causing crooked teeth,
leading to cavities and gum disease. Dental bridges restore potentially
compromised oral health to full function.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A bridge is a special dental appliance used to restore missing teeth. There are
several types of bridges used to span the space. The three most common types
include:
- Fixed Dental Bridges -- This type of bridge is cemented next to the teeth adjacent to
the gap, called the "abutment" teeth. A replacement tooth, called a pontic,
is attached to crowns that provide added support and cover the abutment teeth.
Fixed bridges can only be removed by the dentist.
- Removable Partial Dentures -- When the span is large, your dentist may
suggest this type of bridge. A removable partial denture fastens to natural
teeth with clasps or attachments. This type of appliance can be removed for
cleaning and is less expensive than the fixed type. However, it's usually not
as durable as the fixed bridge.
-
Dental Implant Supported Bridges -- When implants have been placed in spaces
that have no teeth, they serve as "abutments" or anchors for a bridge.
What Materials Are Used in
Dental Bridges?
An assortment of materials are available depending on the function and
appearance. Porcelain, tooth-colored acrylics, gold alloys, and alloys made from
non-precious metals all provide important restorative qualities along with
making your
smile the way you want it.
What's Involved in the Procedure?
Normally at least two visits are needed for preparing the teeth,
custom-designing the bridge, and making adjustments for proper fit and comfort.
How Do I Care for My New
Dental Bridge?
With bridges, extra care must be given to your gums and teeth. Bridges add
more stress to existing teeth and must be supported by healthy gums. Otherwise,
these key teeth are susceptible to decay and affect the bridges.
Brushing twice a day and flossing daily along with regular dental visits are
essential to good oral hygiene. Flossing is often easier by using floss
threaders that help to remove cavity-causing bacteria between the bridge and
adjacent teeth.
Because bridges are intricate and sometimes difficult to clean, your dentist
might suggest a special instrument that helps in caring for your teeth. Similar
in design to professional dental cleaning instruments, it's made of tiny
filaments that rotate to "swoosh" into the crevices between the teeth
and below the gum line. Ask your dentist about this special cleaning device.
With good oral hygiene, a fixed bridge can last eight to ten years or more and
provide years of service enhancing your
smile and appearance and your oral health.
