How Are Teeth Prepared for a Dental Bridge Treatment?
What is a Dental Bridge?
A tooth bridge is a fixed dental prosthesis used to replace missing teeth. It can be made of metal, porcelain, or a combination of both materials.
You can use a dental bridge near you to replace one or multiple teeth. The bridge replaces the function of the lost tooth by providing support for adjacent teeth and helping to maintain oral health by preventing bone loss.
What are the Different Dental Bridges Types?
There are four main types of tooth bridges: traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported.
Traditional bridges consist of two crowns anchored by teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth in between. The false tooth is attached to the crowns with metal wings or clasps.
Cantilever bridges use one tooth for support instead of two. Because of this, the bridge is not strong as a traditional bridge and is used less often.
Maryland bridges are made of a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. A false tooth is then attached to the framework and fills the gap.
Implant-supported bridges are supported by one or more dental implants placed in the jawbone. The implants fuse to the jawbone over time and act as anchors for the dental bridge. These bridges are stronger than traditional or cantilever bridges and can be used in cases with multiple missing teeth.
How Are Dental Bridges Prepared?
Whether you are getting a traditional or implant-supported bridge, the first step is to see your dentist or periodontist for a consultation. At the consultation, your dentist will take x-rays to check if you are a good candidate for dental bridge treatment in Waterford, MI. Your dentist prepares your teeth for treatment. The preparation process will vary depending on the type of bridge you are getting.
For a traditional bridge, some of the enamel is removed to make room for the crowns supporting the bridge. Your dentist will then take an impression to create a custom-made bridge to fit your mouth. You will then be given a temporary dental bridge to wear while your permanent bridge is being made. Once your permanent bridge is ready, you will return to the dentist so that it can be checked and fitted and then cemented into place.
If you are getting an implant-supported bridge, your dentist will need to place two titanium posts into your jawbone where the missing teeth are located. Once the posts have healed and fused with your jawbone, they will act as anchors for the dental bridge.
Once the bridge is complete, it will be shipped back to your dentist’s office, and he will bond it in place using special adhesives. Your new bridge should last for many years with proper care; however, they will need to replace it as your mouth changes over time.
Are Teeth Bridges Worth It?
Teeth bridges are a good option for several reasons:
- They allow you to keep your natural teeth and avoid having dentures or another type of dental appliance permanently attached.
- They can be very attractive and help improve the appearance of your smile.
- They often restore functionality to a mouth with missing teeth by allowing you to chew and normally bite again.
In addition to strengthening weak areas in your jawbone and supporting strong ones, bridges also provide added support when chewing and speaking.
Does a Dental Bridge Look Natural?
Dental bridges are made of different materials, but porcelain is the most common type. When done correctly, a dental bridge can look very natural. The goal is to ensure that the pontic is the right size, shape, and color. Your dentist will work with you to choose the right pontic for your smile.
How Many Teeth Can a Bridge Cover?
The number of teeth on a dental bridge depends on the position of your missing teeth, but A dental bridge can be made from two to six teeth. If you have two missing teeth, your dentist will likely recommend a two-tooth bridge. This option allows for better stability and support than a single-tooth bridge.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit The Waterford Dentist for more information about dental bridges and what you can expect.