The Types & Benefits of Dental Bridges - Bright Horizons Dental

What is a dental bridge?

Dental bridges are a common dental appliance that restores missing teeth. They are one of the most common ways to fix a smile after tooth loss. A bridge has crowns that fit over abutment teeth on either side of the space where a tooth is missing. The crowns are connected by a pontic or false tooth. The bridge is the prosthetic crown that “bridges” that gap..

Bridges are durable, lasting for many years with proper care. If you are considering a dental bridge, talk to your dentist about the best option for you.

What are the types of dental bridges out there?

There are three common types of dental bridges. They are traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, and maryland bridges.

i. Traditional bridge

A traditional bridge is considered the most popular type of dental bridge. It consists of false tooth/teeth, which are held together by dental crowns. The abutment teeth anchor the bridge in place. 

ii. Cantilever bridge

You need only one natural tooth with a cantilever bridge to hold your false tooth in place. Cantilever bridges are not as common as other types of dental bridges, but are commonly used to replace missing back teeth.

iii. Maryland bridge

Maryland dental bridges require two natural teeth on either side of the gap to hold the false teeth closely. Similar to the traditional bridge, it can only be used when you have a natural tooth on the sides of the gap. The bridge uses either porcelain or metal frames, which are held at the backs of the abutment teeth.

The benefits of dental bridges

Improves mastication

You may have difficulties or even pain while eating your favorite meals after losing a tooth. Enamel erosion and the subsequent loss of teeth can cause discomfort or pain. Food particles cause gum irritation when deposited and accumulated in the empty socket where your tooth used to be. Therefore, dental bridge treatment is permanently beneficial for reducing discomfort while eating.

Maintains natural face shape

The health of your jawbone can start to decline if you lose a tooth. This is because tooth roots stimulate the bone cells in your jawbone. Without the stimulation, your jawbone begins to weaken. 

Severe jawbone deterioration can lead to further tooth loss and facial collapse. This can impact the structure of your face. Bridges, when appropriately placed, can restore and maintain the natural shape of your face.

Improve speaking

If you have several missing teeth, you may have difficulty enunciating certain phrases or have a lisp. You’ll need to address the tooth loss that caused your speech difficulties in the first place to fix these problems. With the help of a dental bridge, you can enhance your speaking ability.

Boosts confidence

Patients report that dental bridge treatment has helped boost their confidence. The prosthetic teeth look realistic and thus can mimic your natural smile. When you feel confident, it shows. You may be less likely to withdraw from social activities and more likely to engage in conversations with others.

Best Dentist in Boca Raton

If you are interested, learn more about our Boca Raton FL dentist from our clinic. Feel free to give us a call at 561-989-0107 or make an online appointment. Bright Horizons Dental has you covered with services ranging from General Family Dentistry to the most advanced Cosmetic Dentistry procedures.