Dental Bridges

Porcelain

A popular choice due to its natural-looking, translucent qualities that mimic the appearance of real teeth. [4]  Porcelain bridges are often used for front teeth where aesthetics are paramount.

Metal

Particularly strong and durable, metal bridges are a good option for back teeth that experience greater chewing forces.[5]  However, due to their metallic color, they are not typically used for front teeth.

Zirconia

This is a newer material gaining popularity due to its exceptional strength, durability, and natural tooth-like appearance. [6] Zirconia bridges can be used for both front and back teeth, offering a good balance between aesthetics and functionality.

The resulting bridge is a strong, stable restoration that restores full chewing function and enhances the appearance of your smile.

Types of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges come in various configurations to suit different situations. Here’s a closer look at the three main types:

Traditional Bridges

This is the most common type of bridge. It consists of artificial teeth (called pontics) fused to crowns placed on the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. [2] These crowns act as anchors, securely holding the bridge in place. Traditional bridges are known for their strength and durability, making them a good choice for replacing one or more missing teeth. [3] 

Cantilever Bridges

These bridges offer an alternative when there’s only one healthy tooth next to the missing tooth gap. Unlike traditional bridges, a cantilever bridge uses a single crown on the healthy tooth to support the artificial tooth. [7]  While convenient for specific situations, cantilever bridges may put extra stress on the supporting tooth due to the unbalanced force distribution. Therefore, dentists often recommend them for replacing a single front tooth where aesthetics are a priority.

Maryland Bonded Bridges

This type of bridge offers a more conservative approach compared to traditional bridges. Instead of crowns, a Maryland bonded bridge uses metal or porcelain wings that are bonded to the backside of the healthy teeth flanking the gap.[8]  This method preserves more tooth structure but may not be as strong as traditional bridges, especially for replacing multiple missing teeth.

Advantages of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges offer a multitude of benefits that go beyond simply filling the gap left by missing teeth. Here’s a closer look at the key advantages:

Restored Chewing Function and Improved Bite

Missing teeth can significantly hinder your ability to chew food effectively. Dental bridges restore full chewing function by allowing you to properly distribute chewing forces across all your teeth. This not only improves your digestive health but also allows you to enjoy a wider variety of foods without discomfort. Additionally, a properly designed bridge can help correct misalignment caused by missing teeth, leading to a more balanced bite.

Enhanced Speech Clarity

The placement and function of your tongue rely heavily on the presence of all your teeth. Missing teeth can disrupt the way your tongue interacts with your teeth, leading to speech difficulties. Dental bridges fill the gaps, allowing your tongue to move more freely and precisely, resulting in clearer and more articulate speech.

Improved Facial Aesthetics and Confidence Boost

Missing teeth can cause facial muscles to sag, altering your facial structure and creating a sunken appearance. Dental bridges help you look younger and better-looking by restoring the natural shape of your face. A full smile can also make you feel better about your overall health and boost your confidence by letting you smile without feeling self-conscious.

Durable and Long-lasting Solution (with proper care)

Dental bridges are crafted from strong, high-quality materials designed to withstand everyday wear and tear. With proper oral hygiene practices and regular dental checkups, bridges can last for many years, providing a reliable and long-term solution for replacing missing teeth.

Who Can Get Dental Bridges?

While dental bridges offer numerous advantages, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. A thorough dental consultation is vital to determining if you’re a suitable candidate for bridgework. 

Here’s why:

Comprehensive Oral Health Evaluation

Your dentist will meticulously examine your oral health to ensure your remaining teeth are healthy and strong enough to support a bridge. This includes checking for gum disease, decay, and any other potential issues that could compromise the bridge’s stability.

Jawbone Health Assessment

Dental bridges rely on healthy jawbone tissue for proper anchorage. Your dentist will assess your jawbone health using X-rays or other diagnostic tools to ensure sufficient bone density to support the bridge placement. If bone loss is present, additional procedures like bone grafting may be necessary before proceeding with bridgework.

Number of Missing Teeth

Dental bridges are typically ideal for replacing one or a few missing teeth located next to each other. For multiple missing teeth spread out across your mouth, alternative solutions like dentures or dental implants might be more suitable.

During the consultation, your dentist will discuss all your options and recommend the treatment plan that best addresses your specific needs and goals.

Alternative Solutions

Dentures

Removable appliances that replace all missing teeth in an arch (upper or lower jaw). While a cost-effective option, dentures may not offer the same level of stability and chewing function as bridges.

Dental Implants

Surgically placed artificial tooth roots that provide a strong and stable foundation for individual crowns or bridge. Implants offer a more permanent solution but typically require a longer treatment time and involve a higher initial cost compared to bridges.

The Dental Bridge Procedure

The dental bridge placement process typically involves several appointments spread over a few weeks. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the key steps:

Preparation

During the initial appointment, your dentist will numb the area around the teeth that will support the bridge (abutment teeth) using local anesthesia. Then, they will carefully reshape these teeth to create space for the crowns that will hold the bridge in place. This process removes a small amount of enamel to ensure a proper fit. 

Once the teeth are prepared, your dentist will take impressions of the prepared teeth and the surrounding area to create a customized bridge. A temporary bridge might be placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain aesthetics while the permanent bridge is being crafted in a dental lab.

Fitting and Placement

At your next appointment, your dentist will remove the temporary bridge (if present) and carefully check the fit and color of the permanent bridge. Any necessary adjustments will be made at this time. Once you and your dentist are satisfied with the fit and appearance, the permanent bridge will be securely cemented onto the abutment teeth, restoring your complete smile.

Importance of Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial throughout the entire bridge placement process and beyond. Brushing and flossing diligently before, during, and after the procedure helps prevent gum disease and infection, which can compromise the bridge’s longevity. Your dentist will provide specific instructions on how to effectively clean around the bridge to maintain optimal oral health.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

Just like your natural teeth, dental bridges require proper care to ensure their longevity and optimal function. Here’s how to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile with your bridge:

Brushing and Flossing Techniques

Brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste is essential for removing plaque and food debris from all surfaces of your teeth, including around the bridge. Special attention should be given to the area underneath the bridge, where plaque can easily accumulate. Flossing daily with floss threaders or a special bridge flosser is crucial to remove plaque and food particles trapped beneath the bridge, preventing gum disease and bridge instability. Your dentist can demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques to ensure you’re effectively cleaning around the bridge.

Regular Dental Checkups and Cleanings

Scheduling regular dental checkups and cleanings, typically every six months, is vital for maintaining excellent oral health and the longevity of your bridge. During these appointments, your dentist will thoroughly examine your bridge for any signs of wear, damage, or loose crowns. They will also perform a professional cleaning to remove any deep-seated plaque or tartar that brushing and flossing alone cannot reach. Early detection and treatment of any potential issues can help prevent bridge failure and the need for more extensive procedures down the line.

By following these simple yet crucial oral hygiene practices, you can ensure your dental bridge remains strong, functional, and aesthetically pleasing for many years to come.

Dental bridges are helpful in many ways, not just filling in the gaps left by missing teeth. Here’s a quick recap of the key benefits:

• Restored chewing function and improved bite for better digestion and overall health.
• Enhanced speech clarity for improved communication and social interactions.
• Improved facial aesthetics and a confidence boost for a more youthful appearance and positive self-image,
• Durable and long-lasting solution (with proper care) for a reliable and cost-effective investment in your oral health.

If you’re looking to restore a complete, healthy smile and regain the confidence that comes with it, dental bridges might be the perfect solution for you.

Schedule a consultation with our experienced dentists at Englewood Dental NJ today to discuss your options and see if dental bridges are right for you! We offer a comfortable and welcoming environment where you can ask questions and get all the information you need to make an informed decision about your oral health.

Don’t wait any longer to reclaim your smile and confidence. Contact us today!