What is a Dental Bridge?

Do You Need a Dental Bridge? 

Do you have missing or broken teeth? A dental bridge is a great way to fill in the gaps and restore your smile. Otherwise known as a fixed partial denture, a dental bridge is both a cosmetic fix and a good way to retain healthy gums.

What Can a Dental Bridge Do for You?

• Replace missing teeth for a natural-looking smile.

• Prevent your remaining teeth from moving out of place.

• Prevent the sunken look that can come from gaps in your teeth.

• Restore a strong, even bite.

• Help you smile, speak and eat normally again.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge replaces one or more teeth. The teeth you still have serve as anchors to hold the bridge in place. 

If you have natural teeth mixed with missing or broken teeth, a dental bridge is a better option than a removable partial denture. It allows you to retain your natural teeth, which is the best way to maintain healthy gums. 

How Are Dental Bridges Made?

Most of them are made from porcelain fused to gold or high quality ceramic fused porcelain.

What Is the Process of Getting a Dental Bridge?

If you're getting a permanent bridge, you will need two office visits. Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth during the first visit and install a temporary bridge. During the second visit, you'll get the permanent bridge.

Ways of Installing permanent Dental Bridges

There are three methods for installing dental bridges that dentists commonly use.

Traditional bridge: This is the most common type. It involves crowning the teeth that are on each side of the gap and using these to anchor the bridge. 

Cantilever bridge: If there is only one tooth that can take a crown, your dentist uses a special method called a cantilever to attach the bridge. 

Maryland, acid-etched or resin-bonded bridge: These three names refer to the same type of bridge. This is a metal frame that your dentist attaches to your existing teeth. In a Maryland bridge, the teeth are usually made of resin.

Are Bridges Comfortable?

Modern manufacturing techniques have made today's dentures and bridges more natural-looking and more comfortable than ever. 

There's no need to be embarrassed by your broken, missing teeth. A dental bridge can restore the look of your teeth and make you proud of your smile.

How Do You Keep Your Dental Bridge Clean?

You keep a permanent dental bridge clean by following normal dental hygiene procedures. Floss and brush daily, and get regular dental appointments.

Would a Bridge Restore Your Smile?

If you're thinking about getting a bridge for your missing teeth, contact Malan Family Dentistry today. We'll conduct a thorough assessment of your teeth and determine the right type of bridge for you. Call us today to get started.