Dental bridges are the most basic type of dental reconstruction used to replace missing teeth, whether those teeth were lost due to decay or extraction due to structural damage. A dental bridge, as its name suggests, fills in the space where a tooth used to be. The teeth on both sides of the space are used as anchors, and a false tooth is put in the middle. After they are put in, dental bridges look natural.

Your dentist will look at the area in your mouth where the dental bridge will go to see if you are a good candidate for one. Depending on where the mouth is, a dental bridge may or may not be the best choice. Additionally, the anchor teeth must be evaluated to ensure they are strong enough to support a dental prosthesis. Additionally, dental x-rays and a CBCT scan may be required to assess the condition of the underlying structures.

What are the different types of dental bridges?

If your family dentist Red Deer determines that you are in need of a dental bridge, the type of dental bridge that is best for you must then be determined. Depending on the individual case, there are four types of dental bridges that offer varying options. The following are the four types of dental bridges:

Classic Dental Bridge

The most common type of dental bridge is the traditional one, which you may be familiar with. This bridge comprises one dental crown attached to both surrounding teeth and a false tooth or teeth in the middle. The dental crowns act as anchor points, while the false tooth “bridges” the gap. The strength of traditional bridges is one of their main advantages. One disadvantage is that they necessitate the modification of two adjacent teeth.

Dental Bridge With Cantilevers

Cantilever dental bridges differ from conventional ones because only one anchor tooth is required. They are less prevalent than other types of bridges and are typically only used in the front of the mouth. Due to the strain they can place on a single tooth, cantilever bridges are not recommended for the back of the mouth. Time and money can be saved if a cantilever bridge can be installed without risk. However, this type of bridge can only be safely installed in a few instances. Other options include the use of dentures if gaps are wide which allows full cover. You may check out dentures Kitchener for recommendations on what best suits you.

Maryland Bonded Bridge 

A Maryland bonded bridge is constructed the same way as a traditional dental bridge, but a metal or porcelain framework is used instead of dental crowns as anchors. This framework eliminates the need for adjacent teeth to be modified and is adhered to the back instead. Maryland bonded bridges, in essence, offer a more conservative and cost-effective alternative to traditional bridges. But their durability depends on the adhesive strength, and metal frameworks can discolor teeth.

Bridge Supported by Implants

Implant-supported dental bridges have the same structure as traditional bridges but are supported by dental implants. Thus, implant-supported bridges can be used to span wide gaps caused by the loss of multiple teeth without the need for any of the adjacent teeth to be prepared or altered. Dental implants are also well-known for their durability, strength, and ability to restore normal function. 

This dental bridge, however, necessitates a more extensive placement procedure and subsequent healing time. Teeth whitening is also recommended, so the new bridged tooth will blend in the old to achieve the original feeling from a firm like the dental bonding Lethbridge.

Conclusion

These four dental bridges provide missing tooth patients with various restoration options. When there are teeth on either side of the gap, a traditional or Maryland bonded bridge can be used; when there is only one tooth on one side, a Cantilever bridge can be used; and when there are multiple missing adjacent teeth, an implant-supported bridge can be used. While each type of dental bridge has advantages and disadvantages, only a general dentist can advise you on which is best for you. Selecting the right dental bridge can help you achieve a more radiant smile.