Dental Bridges

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Dental Bridge

Losing some of our teeth normally happens within our lifetime. According to ADA, adults have an average of three or more decayed or missing teeth. Dental bridges have become one of the best options for teeth replacement. As long as there’s still a supporting natural tooth or implant, bridges are a viable option.

A dental bridge is a permanent partial denture used to replace one or more missing teeth. It is attached to the crown capped on top of the surrounding natural tooth beside the missing teeth. The bridge will get support from the dental crown to keep it in place.

The average lifespan of dental bridges can reach up to 10 years. Bridges are dependent on the natural teeth that support it. Regular visits to the dentist and maintaining good oral hygiene keeps the natural teeth healthy. Thus, prolonging the life of the dental bridges.

Why choose dental bridges?

Dentures, dental implants and dental bridges are the options in replacing missing teeth. Patients who suffer from tooth loss consider dental bridges due to the following benefits:

• Bridges restore the normal bite force that has been affected by tooth loss.
• It also prevents the adjacent teeth from shifting positions by filling the gap. Facial structure problems won’t be an issue due to the intact alignment of your teeth.
• There’s little to no adjustment time needed to be comfortable with a dental bridge. Over time, the bridge may start to feel like a natural part of the mouth due to its non-removable feature, unlike dentures.
• It solves the speech and chewing issues that go along with tooth loss.
• Patients who can’t afford dental implants can still have the same benefits of teeth replacement for a lower cost with bridges.

Different Types of dental bridges

Each type of bridge is suitable for certain dental conditions. Like dentures, the purpose of the bridges depends on the kind of materials used like porcelain, ceramic fused to metal, and resin. Here are the different types of dental bridges:

• Traditional bridges are used  when the tooth on each side of the missing teeth are capped with crowns to support the false teeth.
• Cantilever bridges are the type of dental bridges that only get support from the tooth on one side of the missing teeth to hold the bridge.
• Maryland bridges are resin-bonded bridges used for replacing missing front teeth where less bite force is needed.
• Implant-supported bridges are used for replacing two or more missing teeth by being attached to implants instead of natural teeth for support.

Your dental condition will be the basis of the type of dental bridges suitable for you. It’s best to consult your dentist for a more accurate diagnosis of your oral health.

Genesis Family Dentistry loves bridging smiles for better lives

Losing your teeth is not final. There’s still hope for you. We can help you bring back the lost confidence and joy of eating with our restorative dental services in Uptown Charlotte and its neighboring communities.

To learn more about a dental bridge treatment, you may schedule an appointment with our family dentist. You’re just one decision away from smiling again, contact us now.