Dental crises are uncommon, yet they can arise. Having missing teeth affects more than just your smile. 

When teeth are missing, the strain on your teeth and jaw rises because your bottom and top teeth are designed to work together. A dental bridge done at a dental clinic in Oro Valley can improve your smile and reduce stress.

The Function of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are used to figuratively “bridge” the gap caused by missing teeth. Numerous dental bridges available can improve your smile, regardless of how many teeth are missing.

Types of Dental Bridges

Depending on the number of teeth you are missing and the adjacent teeth, there are four basic types of bridges. Pontics, or fake teeth, are frequently used in dental bridges and are fixed in place with dental crowns. Crowned teeth are referred to as abutment teeth.

Standard

The first type is the standard dental bridge. This type, which is the most typical, uses one to four fake teeth to “bridge” the gap. A typical dental bridge is utilized when healthy teeth are on each side of the gap. The enamel of these teeth will be removed. 

Following the placement of crowns on the two natural teeth, a pontic will be inserted to fill the gap. The bridge is constructed from a single piece that properly fits into the aperture.

Cantilever

A cantilever bridge is used when there is only one natural tooth on one side of the gap, much like a standard dental bridge. Enamel will be removed from the natural tooth, receiving a crown and supporting the pontics. Similar to a typical bridge, the bridge will cover the natural tooth and the gap.

Maryland

The Maryland dental bridge adopts a more cautious posture when compared to the traditional dental bridge. The metal or porcelain framework holding the pontics at the gum line in place.

The framework is subsequently secured using the nearby teeth. This is a fantastic substitute if you wish to avoid crowns and fillings!

Dental bridges supported by implants are necessary when there are gaps in a smile caused by the loss of multiple teeth. 

As its name suggests, the bridge is supported by dental implants. For every tooth lost, one implant is put in. Although all four dental bridges can be unpleasant, this one seems the most secure.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are a great way to repair missing teeth. In addition to giving you a gorgeous and natural-looking smile, dental bridges also have the following benefits:

  • Simple, quick, and inexpensive method that does not involve surgery
  • If kept properly, it takes 5–15 years
  • Encourage better dental hygiene
  • Boost your speaking and eating abilities.

Dental Bridge FAQs Bridges vs. Implants

There are two ways to replace lost teeth to improve the look of your smile. One option is dental bridges, while another is dental implants. 

More extensive surgical intervention is required for dental implants. Implants are drilled into your mouth and linked to your jawbone. They are stronger but call for more invasive therapy.

Guidelines for Maintaining Dental Bridges

Once a dental bridge is in place, you won’t need to worry about significantly changing your oral hygiene practice. Your dental bridge must be cleaned and flossed like your natural teeth. If you take good care of it and treat your dental bridge like your original teeth, it should last at least ten years.

Will It Need To Be Replaced?

Your dental bridge will require replacement within ten years of its implantation (15 years if you maintain good oral health). The anchoring crowns of the bridge may require replacement in seven to 10 years. Unlike dental implants, replacing your bridge is quick and easy and doesn’t require surgery.

How Long Will The Process Take?

Dental bridges typically require 1-2 visits to complete. At your initial appointment, the doctors will take impressions of your mouth to create the custom bridge. 

During this session, the abutment teeth will also be cleaned and have their crowns placed. You will be provided a temporary bridge until your permanent bridge is ready. Once your new bridge is complete, you will return to install it and make any necessary adjustments.

Conclusion 

Have you changed your mind about getting a dental bridge? Make an appointment at a cosmetic dental clinic in Oro Valley to discuss your options. Because our dentists care about your comfort, we will select the best therapy for any dental issue!

If you are looking for an all-around dental provider to take care of all dental needs, you have found the team you need with the experts at Oro Valley Dental Arts. We are here for all your dental needs. We provide dental bridge, dental hygiene, Invisalign, dental crowns, family dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, dental veneers, dental implants, and teeth whitening. Book an appointment today.