Many patients do not know how missing a tooth can affect your oral health. Even missing just one tooth can make a difference in your oral health, increasing the risk of oral decay and other issues. They bridge the gap that is created when patients are missing one or more teeth.
Dental bridges have several uses and can accomplish many things, such as:
When your dentist suggests a bridge, it could be one of three options. The type of bridge used will depend on your dental issues as well as the area that needs restorative work.
Traditional bridges use a crown or an implant on both sides of the area missing a tooth or several teeth. These bridges are very common and can be made of porcelain that has been fused to metal as well as a ceramic material.
These bridges are used when a patient only has teeth on one side of an area, missing a tooth or several teeth. These are less common than other types of bridges, as they cannot take the amount of force as other bridges. They are often not recommended for teeth that are in the back of your mouth for this reason.
These bridges are also known as Maryland bridges. They’re often made of porcelain, a mix of porcelain and metal, or use plastic teeth that are supported using a metal framework. Wings made of porcelain or metal are often used on one side of resin-bonded bridges to keep them secure in the mouth.
Whenever you are missing a tooth, it is important to speak to your dentist about replacing it. Speak with a dentist at 21st Street Dental Group in order to discuss how dental bridges or other restoration methods can be used to give you a healthy smile and improve the appearance of your look.