Dental Bridges
One of the options used to replace missing or severely damaged teeth is using a dental bridge. There are advantages and disadvantages of this solution compared to other procedures. To help you decide whether to undergo this tooth replacement option, below is some important information about dental bridges and how they work.
Types of Dental Bridges
By its name, a dental bridge is used to ‘bridge’ the gap between healthy teeth. It is an artificial tooth attached to natural teeth or implants. There are 3 basic types of bridges that are classified according to placement.
Traditional Bridges
With this type, the bridge connects to healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth. To make the attachment possible, the natural teeth are shaved and placed with a crown to strengthen the foundation. The bridge will then be attached to the crowns to make a solid row of teeth.
Maryland Bridge
A metal structure is used in this type of bridge, which is cemented to the back of the teeth to provide support to the bridge. Using this type leaves the natural teeth entirely intact.
Bridge Supported by Dental Implants
This is the best option when 3 or more teeth require replacement. The dental implants on both ends of the bridge act as support.
The Advantages of Dental Bridges
Here are the advantages of using this tooth-replacement option.
- Less expensive than implants. Since dental bridges are less invasive and require fewer pre-procedure treatments, the cost is usually lower than implants. This is the main reason why many people choose this option.
- Less invasive. Bone grafting is sometimes required with dental implants when the patient’s jaw bone is weakened. With a bridge, this step is not performed.
- More secure than dentures. If there are enough healthy teeth left, bridges are recommended. The natural teeth anchor the row of teeth. With dentures, the gums are used as an anchor, which can sometimes be insecure.
- Faster to put into place. When compared to implants, dental bridges require less time to be completed, since you must wait 4-6 months to complete the implant process.
Disadvantages of Dental Bridges
- Traditional bridges require altering healthy teeth. With the traditional type, the natural teeth need to be shaved down and capped. This means losing the protective layer of the tooth and poses a higher risk of damage.
- Maryland bridges may not be sturdy enough. As mentioned earlier, this type of bridge requires cementing a metal structure at the back of the anchor tooth. Although no alterations are performed on the healthy tooth, it can do damage to the anchor tooth in the long run due to pressure when chewing.
- They can’t correct bone loss in the jaw. The jaw bone holds the tooth in place. With a missing tooth, the jaw bone can dissolve or reabsorb. Since there are no artificial roots in bridges – they just sit on the gum line – bone loss will occur.
Still unsure if a dental bridge is right for you? Our dentists are ready to answer questions and offer advice on the best course of treatment to take after a thorough assessment of your mouth.