Dental Bridge: Knowing Your Options With Dental Bridges

1. Fixed bridges (permanently attached)

This type of bridge is applied through either placing crowns on the abutment teeth or through bonding the artificial teeth directly to the adjacent natural teeth. These dental bridges can only be removed by a dental professional and are bonded into place. Fixed bridges are known to be the type that offers more stability compared to the removable bridges.

2. Removable bridges

This type of bridges is attached to the teeth with clasps or by precision attachments. In other words, this type of dental bridge can be taken out and cleaned.

The Procedure of Attaching a Dental Bridge

In most cases, the procedure of attaching the bridge takes two to three (2 – 3) appointments to be completed. During the first appointment, the preparation of the teeth on either side of the gap is created by removing a portion of the enamel and dentin.

The bridge must be fabricated precisely to assure an accurate bite and to match the opposing tooth. Impressions of the teeth are then taken and sent to a lab where the bridge will be constructed. In typical situations, fixed bridges that are permanently attached are cemented to the natural teeth next to the space left by the missing tooth. The lost teeth are then replaced. The teeth that provide support for the bridge are crowns, which are cemented onto the natural teeth.

The construction of bridges can be made of porcelain or a combination of materials. Porcelain is often bonded to either a precious or non-precious metal.

The Reasons For Needing A Dental Bridge in

The following are the common and basic reasons for needing a bridge:

• Commonly, two of the primary reasons for a bridge is the appearance and oral functionality. It has been proven that a dental bridge can help support an individual’s lips and cheeks. A person’s face looks older due to the loss of teeth which causes one’s mouth to sink.

• One of the worst side effects of missing teeth is the increased risk of gum disease.

• Missing teeth can cause speech disorders since they are used in making several sounds we use to speak clearly.

• The most essential reason for a bridge is for the purpose of dental health. Teeth are intended to complement one another. A number of harmful disorders are caused by stresses that are placed on the gums and other oral tissues when teeth are missing.

Bridges also need to be taken care of. Keeping the bridge clean requires a regimen of brushing and flossing. It is important to remember that a dental bridge relies on the neighboring teeth for support.

Learn more about General Dentistry.