Missing teeth can affect both the functionality and appearance of your smile. One of the most effective solutions for filling these gaps is a dental bridge. Dental bridges are prosthetic devices designed to “bridge” the gap created by one or more missing teeth, restoring both aesthetics and oral function..
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506-634-0221
Dental bridges replace missing teeth. Specifically, they can replace one tooth or a row of missing teeth. As the name implies, this appliance literally “bridges the gap” in your smile. Dentists can create custom bridges that match the shade of your natural teeth.
There are different parts that make up a dental bridge:
Depending on your situation and the type of bridge you receive, your bridge might consist of one or more abutments and one or more pontics
Advantages of dental bridges
Dental bridges can:
Disadvantages of dental bridges
Dental bridges also have some drawbacks:
You should schedule an appointment with your dentist if:
This is the most common type of dental bridge. It consists of dental crowns (caps) on both ends with pontics (artificial teeth) in between. A dentist bonds the crowns to your natural teeth (abutments) on either side of the gap, and the artificial teeth (pontics) fill in the space between. Dentists use traditional dental bridges when you have healthy natural teeth on both sides of the gap
A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge. But there’s only a crown on one end, not both. So, when your dentist bonds the bridge onto your abutment tooth, the artificial tooth (pontic) “hangs over” or extends across the gap. Dentists use cantilever bridges when you only have natural teeth on one side of the gap. Due to their design, cantilever bridges aren’t as strong as traditional bridges.
A Maryland bridge (or resin-bonded bridge) uses metal wings instead of crowns to secure your bridge. A dentist bonds the wings to the backs of your neighboring teeth to hold your bridge in place. Dentists typically use Maryland bridges to replace front teeth. These appliances aren’t strong enough to withstand the chewing forces of back teeth.
An implant-supported bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, but it rests atop dental implants instead of natural teeth. Dental implants are small threaded posts that replace missing teeth roots. Before attaching a bridge to dental implants, your implants must fully integrate (fuse) with your jawbone. This process takes three to six months on average, but it can take longer depending on your situation. Dentists can use implant-supported bridges when you have three or more missing teeth in a row
Visit us for regular dental check-ups in Saint John and get guidance on maintaining your oral health.
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506-634-0221
506-634-7213
709 Millidge Ave
Saint John, NB E2K 2N7
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