What Is a Dental Bridge?
September 5, 2022
Got a missing tooth? The ideal solution for this dental problem is a dental bridge. According to a dental professional, dental bridges in Sioux City are exceptional. Here’s what you need to know about this dental treatment.
Basics of Dental Bridges
What Is a Dental Bridge?
This dental device is a prosthetic tooth replacement that uses the support of the teeth next to it to maintain its position. Or, to put it another way, a dental bridge is a prosthetic utilized to repair the gap left by a lost tooth with a pontic. It comprises a pontic (sometimes called a false tooth) and its abutments (supporting prosthetic crowns for the adjacent teeth). Although a dental bridge has a variety of functions, when it comes to replacing the front tooth in particular, it is a great option.
Types of Dental Bridges
- Maryland Bridge
Sometimes called the resin-bonded bridge, the Maryland bridge is often resorted to when one front tooth is missing. It is the best option for a tooth that does not have to withstand biting and chewing pressure. The reason for this is that the pontic of the bridge does not require additional support from its abutments to perform its function.
Small resin wings on the pontic of the bridge are fastened to the posterior (rear) side of the neighboring teeth. These parts support the primary pontic, the prosthesis used to fill the gap left by a missing tooth. Because of this process, the adjacent teeth need not be extensively prepared or ground down to incorporate these attachments. If properly maintained, these bridges can last for 10 to 15 years before needing to be replaced.
- Cantilever Bridge
A cantilever bridge is identical to a traditional bridge, except it supports only one side of the gap left by a lost tooth. It has a single abutment and a pontic that acts as a cantilever bridge. This is primarily preferred when the missing tooth can still fulfill its role in the oral cavity with only minimal assistance from its neighboring tooth.
- Conventional Bridge
This is the most popular kind of dental bridge for both the front and back teeth. One or more lost teeth can be restored by using the support of the teeth on either side of the gap.
- Fixed Bridges
Fixed bridges cannot be removed since they are attached to the teeth using specialized dental cement. A removable bridge fitted to an implant-supported prosthetic can also make it long-lasting. Removable bridges are frequently employed when the gap is too broad, or there are no teeth to support a fixed bridge.
Do Foods Cling to the Dental Bridge?
Although bridges are designed to fit against the gum line, occasionally, there may be a gap between the two that food particles can get caught in. The patient will frequently have poor breath due to the trapped food particles. If it is not addressed right away, gum disease may develop. This problem can be avoided by maintaining adequate oral hygiene.
Where to Get Quality Dental Bridges in Sioux City
Dental bridges are always a better option when replacing missing teeth than dental implants. With your dentist, you can personalize your dental treatment plans and ask for advice on an excellent dental bridge.
Using the guidance of an experienced dentist, you can select an appropriate solution based on your financial condition and oral health. Schedule an appointment with us!