Good dental health is a key part of overall wellness. It’s not just about a bright smile, but also about keeping our mouths healthy. That’s why understanding dental procedures and options available to us such as dental bridges is crucial. This piece serves as a guide to dental bridges, crafted by a general dentist with dental exam Orlando experience to cater to your queries and concerns. Let’s get started.
What are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are a common solution for missing teeth. Just like a road bridge connects two sides, a dental bridge connects the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It consists of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth/teeth in between.
Types of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges come in four main types: traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported. The right one for you depends on the health of your adjacent teeth, your budget, and your personal preference.
| TYPE | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Traditional | Most common type, made of ceramics or porcelain fused to metal. |
| Cantilever | Used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. |
| Maryland | Made of porcelain, metal, or plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal or porcelain framework. |
| Implant-Supported | Most stable and strongest, each missing tooth is replaced by a dental implant. |
Benefits of Dental Bridges
There are several benefits of getting a dental bridge. They improve your ability to chew and speak, maintain the shape of your face, distribute the forces in your bite properly, and prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
The Procedure
The procedure usually takes two visits. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the teeth and takes impressions. During the second visit, the new bridge is fitted. Good oral hygiene will extend the life of your bridge. It is also important to see your dentist regularly for check-ups.
With this guide, hope you find it easier to understand dental bridges. Remember to ask your dentist all the necessary questions, be it about the procedure or its cost. The goal is to make an informed decision about your dental health.
