About Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a dependable and permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. Unlike removable partial dentures, which rely on existing teeth for support, a dental bridge is anchored by crowns on neighboring teeth or dental implants. This method effectively restores both the appearance and function of your natural smile while preventing teeth from shifting and ensuring proper bite alignment.
The concept of a fixed dental bridge is not new; it has been used for thousands of years. Ancient civilizations employed various materials, including animal and human teeth, bones, gold, and ivory, to fill gaps in their smiles.
Fortunately, advancements in dental materials and technology have greatly enhanced dental bridges. Today, modern bridges are made from high-quality materials such as porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, and advanced ceramics like zirconia. These materials offer improved strength, durability, and a more aesthetically pleasing appearance, resulting in a natural and attractive look.
Common Types of
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges can replace one or more missing teeth, depending on factors such as the number of teeth lost and the condition of the remaining teeth. There are four primary types of dental bridges: the traditional fixed bridge, the implant-supported bridge, the cantilever bridge, and the Maryland bridge. Of these, the traditional fixed bridge and the implant-supported bridge are the most frequently recommended options.
Traditional Fixed Bridge
A traditional fixed bridge usually involves preparing and crowning the teeth on either side of the gap. These crowned teeth provide support for the artificial teeth, known as "pontics," that fill the empty space. Just as a bridge relies on strong pillars for stability, a dental bridge derives its strength and support from the crowned teeth anchoring the pontics.
On the other hand, a cantilever fixed bridge resembles a traditional fixed bridge but differs in that only one side of the pontic is anchored to a crown for support.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Dental implants are the most advanced option for replacing missing teeth, closely resembling the look, feel, and function of natural teeth. An implant-supported bridge is often preferred because it eliminates the need to prepare or involve adjacent natural teeth.
Implants serve as artificial tooth roots, providing the essential support for a bridge. This type of bridge offers flexibility in reconstructing a complete smile, as strategically placed implants can support any number of replacement teeth. Moreover, dental implants help prevent bone shrinkage that can occur after tooth loss, preserving the natural contours of your face.
At Pearl Dental Studio, our mission is to help every patient achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile. We offer skilled and experienced care, utilizing advanced dental implant solutions to transform incomplete smiles into confident, functional, and attractive ones.