Dental bridges are a great option to bridge gaps between missing teeth to achieve a beautiful smile. Whether you’ve lost one or more teeth due to injury, decay or other causes, dental bridges can provide a natural-looking solution. When dental implants are not an option, dental bridges are an ideal solution to restore your smile without surgery.
At Morris Dental Solutions, we focus on restorative dentistry solutions. We know that missing teeth can greatly affect your life, and we are here to help you find the best solution. If you are searching for dental bridges Buffalo Grove or cosmetic dentist Buffalo Grove, visit Morris Dental Solutions. To schedule an appointment, call (847) 215-1511 or complete the online booking form.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge (fixed partial denture) consists of two or more crowns attached to a false tooth. The crowns (also referred to as abutment teeth) connect the false tooth and serve as anchors. After the abutment teeth are prepared, they securely hold the artificial tooth. Your dentist will create a customized bridge (pontic) that fits your mouth and is designed to match the color of your natural teeth.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are four types of fixed bridges: traditional, cantilever, Maryland/Resin-Bonded, and implant-supported. Each type has its unique characteristics and uses varying materials for construction.
Traditional Dental Bridges: A traditional bridge is a popular and widely used type of dental bridge. It consists of a dental crown on the teeth on either side of the gap, with a fake tooth or teeth (pontic) in between. The crowns provide anchor points for the bridge while filling in the gap between the two teeth. One of the main benefits of this type of bridge is its strength and durability.
Cantilever Dental Bridges: Instead of using two anchor teeth, cantilever bridges only use one. This method makes them less common than other bridges, and they are usually only used for the front teeth. Placing a cantilever bridge at the back of the mouth can put too much strain on a single tooth, which can cause it to become damaged or even break. If a cantilever bridge is indicated in the back of the mouth, more than one anchor tooth will need to be prepared.
Maryland/Resin-Bonded Dental Bridges: The Maryland-bonded bridge is a great alternative to traditional dental bridges. It uses a metal or porcelain framework instead of crowns, eliminating the need to modify the adjacent teeth. The framework is adhered (glued) to the back of the adjacent teeth. This bridge is popular because it is more affordable and less invasive than traditional bridges.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridges: In this type of bridge, a dental implant supports one or more false teeth and provides a secure and stable solution for replacing missing teeth. This type of bridge spans long gaps but is much more invasive and has a longer recovery period due to the implants.
Advantages of Bridges
Dental bridges are an excellent solution to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. They offer a wide range of benefits, such as:
- Improve the appearance of your smile
- Help to maintain the shape of your face
- Prevent other teeth from shifting out of place
- Improve your ability to chew and speak properly
- Restore your bite
- Enhance self-confidence and esteem
Disadvantages of Bridges
Dental bridges are a popular choice for restoring missing teeth, but there are some associated drawbacks.
- The healthy abutment teeth on either side of the gap that hold the pontic in place may become damaged after the bridge is fitted.
- Teeth prepared for bridges are at higher risk for needing root canal therapy in addition to the bridge.
- For some patients, the supporting abutment teeth have insufficient strength to hold the bridge and consequently collapse.
- The supporting bone under the false tooth can deteriorate.
- Dental bridges need more maintenance and care compared to other treatments.
Am I a Good Candidate?
Good overall health is important for any dental procedure, including bridges. If you have any existing medical conditions or infections, it may not be safe to undergo the procedure. Your dentist will perform a dental exam to ensure your teeth, gums, and bone structure are strong enough to support the bridge.
Good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing can help ensure that your mouth is healthy enough for a bridge. Your dentist will also assess whether other treatments may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, they will be able to advise you on whether or not getting a dental bridge is right for you.
Taking Care of Your Bridge
Maintaining a bridge is important to ensure that it lasts many years. You should care for your bridge like you care for your natural teeth. It is important to brush your teeth twice a day and floss your remaining natural teeth. Good oral hygiene will help keep the area around the bridge clean and free of plaque and bacteria. For the most part, you can eat the same foods, but you will need to avoid chewing on hard foods like ice or hard candy, as this could damage the bridge.
It is also important to visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams. During these visits, your dentist will check the fit of the bridge and ensure it is still securely in place. If any adjustments need to be made, they can be done at this time. Regular checkups allow your dentist to monitor any changes in your oral health that may affect the bridge or its fit over time. Taking good care of your dental bridge will help ensure that it lasts many years.
Summary
- A dental bridge (fixed partial denture) consists of two or more crowns attached to a false tooth.
- There are four types of fixed bridges: traditional, cantilever, Maryland/Resin-Bonded, and implant-supported.
- Traditional: consists of a dental crown on the teeth on either side of the gap, with a fake tooth or teeth (pontic) in between.
- Cantilever: instead of using two anchor teeth, cantilever bridges only use one. In the back of the mouth, additional teeth will be required for stability.
- Maryland/Resin-Bonded: uses a metal or porcelain framework instead of crowns, eliminating the need to modify the adjacent teeth.
- Implant-supported: a dental implant supports one or more false teeth and provides a secure and stable solution for replacing missing teeth.
- Good oral hygiene is important to ensure your bridge lasts a long time. Schedule regular visits to the dentist for check-ups and cleanings.
Smile Makeovers With Dental Bridges in Buffalo Grove
Dental bridges are a great solution to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. At Morris Dental Solutions in Buffalo Grove, IL, we use the latest dental technology to offer different bridges to meet the needs of our patients and their smile goals. Our experienced team will discuss all the options available with you and explain their advantages and disadvantages so that you can make an informed decision about your treatment.
If you are searching dental bridges Buffalo Grove, cosmetic dentist Buffalo Grove or dentist near me, visit Morris Dental Solutions. To schedule an appointment, call (847) 215-1511 or complete the online booking form. We also proudly serve the communities of Barrington, Highland Park, Long Grove, and Arlington Heights.
Call UsDental Bridge FAQ
A bridge can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years with proper care. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams to extend your bridge’s lifespan.
Dental bridges are usually made of metal and porcelain, although other materials, such as zirconia and gold alloys, can be used. Your dentist will discuss your options and help you choose the best material for your bridge.
A dental implant replaces the entire tooth root, while a dental bridge replaces only the crown of the tooth. Implants are more costly than bridges but can last longer and provide better stability for the replaced tooth.
For the most part, yes. You should be able to eat anything you normally eat with your natural teeth. It is important to avoid hard and crunchy foods, such as ice or hard candy, that could damage the bridge.
Yes, it is important to brush and floss your teeth regularly and visit your dentist twice a year for a check-up. This will help ensure your bridge fits properly and remains in good condition. Additionally, it is important to avoid hard and crunchy foods that could damage the bridge.
