What Is A Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. Unlike a removable partial denture, a bridge remains securely in your mouth and does not need to be taken out for daily cleaning.
Most dental bridges include one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, that fill the open space in your smile. The bridge receives support from crowns placed over nearby natural teeth or from dental implants positioned in the jawbone.
Modern dental bridges are made from strong, natural-looking materials such as porcelain, ceramic or zirconia. We carefully design each restoration to complement the shape, shade and proportions of your natural teeth to help it blend seamlessly with your smile.
Why Should You Replace A Missing Tooth?
Even one missing tooth can gradually affect your bite and overall oral health. When a space remains open, nearby teeth may begin to drift or tilt toward the gap. A tooth in the opposite arch may also move farther out of its normal position because it no longer has a tooth to bite against. Replacing missing teeth with dental bridges may help:
Traditional Fixed Bridges
A traditional fixed bridge is one of the most common ways to replace a missing tooth. This restoration uses natural teeth on both sides of the gap for support.
To prepare for the bridge, the supporting teeth are reshaped and covered with dental crowns. The replacement tooth or teeth are connected to those crowns, creating a single restoration that spans the open space. Once cemented in place, the bridge remains stable while you eat, speak and smile.
Who Is A Candidate For A Traditional Fixed Bridge?
Traditional dental bridges may be appropriate when the teeth next to the gap are healthy enough to support crowns. This option can be especially beneficial when those neighboring teeth already have large fillings, damage or decay and could benefit from the added protection of a crown.
Placing A Traditional Bridge
The traditional bridge process usually requires more than one appointment. During the first visit, we prepare the supporting teeth, take detailed impressions and place a temporary restoration. A dental laboratory then creates your permanent bridge according to the specifications of your smile. At your final visit, we check its fit, appearance and bite before securely cementing it into place.
Implant-Supported Bridges
An implant-supported bridge replaces missing teeth without relying on neighboring natural teeth for support. Instead, the bridge attaches to dental implants that have been surgically positioned in the jawbone.
Because implants act as artificial tooth roots, they provide a strong and stable foundation for the restoration. They can also stimulate the surrounding jawbone, which may help limit the bone loss that typically follows tooth loss.
Am I A Candidate?
Implant-supported dental bridges can replace several consecutive missing teeth without requiring an implant for every individual tooth. The number and placement of implants will depend on the location of the gap, the condition of your jawbone and your overall treatment needs.
Dental Implant Restoration In Palm Beach Gardens
Pediatric & Adult Dentistry of the Palm Beaches does not surgically place dental implants. When implant placement is recommended, we can coordinate with an experienced dentist. After the implants have healed and integrated with the bone, Dr. Kramer can design and place the customized bridge restoration that completes your smile.
Which Type Of Bridge Is Right For You?
At Pediatric & Adult Dentistry of the Palm Beaches, we will always be sure to discuss all of your options with you to make sure you receive the best-fit treatment. Before recommending treatment, we complete a thorough dental examination and review your health history. Any active tooth decay or gum disease will need to be treated first so your restoration has a healthy foundation. The right treatment depends on several factors, including:
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
If you have questions about dental bridges, we’re here to help. We’re also happy to discuss more of your questions during your next appointment with us. Check out some of our FAQs about bridges below to learn more.
