If an adult tooth is knocked out or removed there is no natural replacement for it. This is where a dental bridge comes in. A dental bridge helps fill the space where your natural tooth (or teeth) once was, with a false tooth (or teeth). The dental bridge uses the teeth on either side of the gap as support, making it look natural and seamless.
What is a dental bridge made of?
A dental bridge can be made of many materials but is usually made from porcelain to look natural. Dental bridges can also be made of gold, metal, or ceramic. It’s important to talk with your dentist to help determine which material is best for you.
Why do I need a dental bridge?
There are many reasons someone may need a dental bridge. If an adult tooth is knocked out accidentally or needs to be removed because of an oral health problem such as tooth decay a dental bridge can fill the gap.
Additionally, gaps in the teeth can lead to other problems such as:
- Problems with speech or pronunciation
- Trouble chewing food
- Low self-confidence when smiling or talking due to a gap
- Bone loss from the jaw due to the missing tooth or teeth
- Teeth on either side moving to “fill” the gap, which can cause bite problems
If a missing tooth or teeth are impacting your quality of life, a dental bridge may be the best option for you. Talk to your dentist to see if you are a good candidate for a dental bridge.
Different types of dental bridges
There are four types of dental bridges:
- Traditional fixed bridges: These are the most common types of bridges that generally includes a crown on either side of the false tooth.
- Implant-supported bridges: During an implanted-supporting bridge procedure an implant is surgically embedded into the jawbone for each missing tooth. Once the implants are secured a false tooth is placed over them during a second procedure.
- Cantilever bridges: This type of bridge only uses one crown on a natural tooth to anchor a false tooth. This type is not used very often anymore.
- Maryland dental bridges: This type of bridge is often used for missing front teeth. A bridge with “wings” is secured to the back side of the teeth on either side of the gap.
Your dentist will help determine which bridge type is best for you and your specific needs.
Dental bridge procedures
The exact steps in a dental bridge procedure depend on the type of bridge you will use. However, in all cases, your dentist will need a digital scan or impression of the gap and surrounding teeth to form the bridge. This ensures a perfect and natural fit.
Traditional bridge procedure
If you are receiving a traditional bridge, the first step will be to prepare the teeth on either side of the gap for their crowns. This is done by removing enamel and dentin from them to make room for the crowns. Once this is done, a temporary bridge is placed over them until the permanent bridge is ready to be placed.
The second step of a traditional bridge procedure is to install the permanent bridge. This is done by removing the temporary crowns, ensuring the fit of the dental bridge, and cementing the bridge. Once the bridge is cemented in place it is considered permanent*.
*Note: Although considered “permanent” since they cannot be removed like dentures, dental bridges will need to be replaced at some point in the future and reinstalled by your dentist.
Implant-supported bridge procedure
This bridge type is the most invasive because it requires surgery and a potentially long recovery period. However, it’s the most stable of all dental bridge procedures. During this procedure, implants are placed in your jaw. Then crown(s) will be placed on top of the implants. Implant-supported bridges can take months to be fully installed.
Maryland dental bridge procedure
During a Maryland dental bridge procedure, your dentist will scratch the backside of the teeth on either side of the gap to help the “wings” bond to them. Once the bridge is fitted your dentist will use resin to bond the bridge with “wings” to the teeth. This procedure typically only requires one step.
How long do dental bridges last?
In general, a dental bridge will last between five to seven years. If the bridge is well taken care of it may last up to a decade. However, as technology improves it is likely dental bridges of the future will last much longer.
How do I care for a dental bridge?
Caring for your dental bridge is an important step in helping it last. Just like your natural teeth, you should brush your dental bridge twice a day and floss around it once a day. Your dentist will teach you proper techniques to keep the bridge clean. It’s also important to see your dentist twice a year for cleanings.
Dental bridges are a great way to “bridge the gaps” in your mouth. If you have additional questions about dental bridges, please talk with your dentist to see if it is a good option for you.
