How do dental bridges work?

Having a few missing teeth is more common than you may at first think. On average, adults between the ages of 20 to 64 years old have around 3 decayed or missing teeth. Although having missing or decayed teeth is quite a common issue, there are multiple different options when it comes to replacements. Dental bridges are a popular solution when it comes to this problem, so in this article, we will look at the variations of dental bridges, and how they work to replace your old teeth.

What are the benefits of getting dental bridges?

Dental bridges offer many solutions once they are fitted. They are designed to act just like your natural, healthy teeth would do, and to reduce any discomfort you may be feeling without them. They can also:

*Give you back the ability to chew and talk normally, and without any discomfort

*Restore your teeth and smile

*Redistribute the force in your bite evenly on your teeth

*Prevent any natural teeth from moving out of their proper position

*Maintaining the shape of your jaw and face structure through replacing missing teeth

What type of bridges are available to me?

There is quite a variety to choose from when it comes to choosing the right dental bridge for you, each with its own set of advantages.

1. Traditional dental bridges

The most popular form of dental bridges available, this type of bridge is made up from one or more pontics (false teeth), which are then held in place by a dental crown, via being cemented onto the teeth which are adjacent to your missing tooth / teeth.

Traditional pages can be used when you have two natural, healthy teeth on each side of the missing tooth. The bridges are even strong enough to be used for replacing molars. There are however some downsides for opting to use traditional dental brides, meaning they won’t be suitable for all. Your dentist will need to remove the enamel of the adjacent tooth In order to make enough room for the crowns to be fitted. Therefore, the adjacent teeth will always need to be protected with a crown, to compensate for the removed enamel.

2. Maryland bridges

Maryland bridges are quite a similar alternative to traditional bridges. They are comprised of pontics, which are later held in place through using either metal or porcelain as the frame work. The framework is then placed and bonded onto the backs of the adjacent teeth, however, since there are no crowns involved with Maryland bridges, the enamel of the adjacent teeth does not need to be filed or removed.

Despite the advantages Maryland bridges aren’t necessarily for everyone. In some cases the bridge is less likely to stay in place due to the strength of it being dependant upon the strength of resin which holds it in place. This is most common with bridges in molars, as the more biting force is placed upon these teeth, the more the framework could also be a hinderance to your gums or bite.

3. Cantilever bridges

Another option which is very similar to traditional bridges, this form of bridges are designed to be able to support the pontics using a dental crown on only one side, or in other words, these bridges only require one tooth next to the gap to be secured.

4. Implant supported bridges

If you have more than one tooth missing, Implant supported bridges may be the best option for you. These bridges differ from the others on the list, as they are held in place using dental implants, rather than crowns or frameworks. One implant is used for each tooth missing, and these implants work together to hold the bridge in place. Pontics may be used through being held in between two implant supported crowns, if using an implant for each missing tooth isn’t a possibility.

Implant supported bridges are both secure and comfortable, and are as close to the natural teeth they are replacing as possible. To have these fitted, you will require two surgeries to plant the implants and to place the bridge, which can take up to five months to complete.

If you are currently looking for dental implant treatments in Solihull, be sure to get in contact with the Ascent Dental Care Solihull team, to receive a friendly and professional service for you and your teeth!

Looking for more information?

Require a dental appointment, or are looking for cosmetic surgery such as teeth whitening in Solihull, why not contact Ascent Dental Care Solihull today, for a tailored and friendly service.