Just as the name suggests, dental bridges fill up the gap created by one or more missing teeth. The technique used in teeth bridging is similar to that of ordinary bridge making. A dental crown is placed on either tooth adjacent to the gap to hold in place the false tooth or teeth placed in between. The adjacent normal teeth in this case are the abutment teeth, named for their role in acting as anchors. The false teeth between the anchor teeth go by the name of pontics.
You can have three types of bridges. The traditional bridge is the most common and it involves the use of crowns placed on the either side of the teeth that is missing. The crowns assist to hold the pontic in place. The traditional bridge uses porcelain that could be fused to either ceramics or metal to increase strength. The second type of bridge is the cantilever bridge that is used when adjacent teeth lay on only one side of the gap. The third type, Maryland bonded bridge or resin-bonded bridge uses plastic teeth and gums supported by a metallic framework. The metal forms wings on either side of the bridge that bond to the existing teeth.
Getting a bridge takes several visits to the dental clinic. The first stage involves the preparation of abutment teeth. An impression of the teeth would also be taken so that it is used to fabricate the bridge, pontic and crowns. Meanwhile, the adjacent teeth are prepared for anchoring through the removal of an enamel portion contouring. When all is done, the patient gets a temporary bridge that covers the exposed gums and teeth.
In the second appointment, the permanent bridge would be ready for placement. The dentist performs all the necessary adjustment while fitting it and this happens after the removal of the temporary bridge. Usually, additional visits are required for fixation, as it is a gradual process. The actual number of visits to the dental clinic depends on the health of the patient’s teeth and the type of bridge chosen. When properly done, the bridge restores the smile and gives you the ability to chew and speak well. It also helps to maintain the shape of your face and distributes the biting pressure evenly to keep the remaining teeth in shape.
The lifespan of a well-placed dental bridge is about 15 years, and the cost depends on the individual’s health insurance cover and the dental clinic charges, as well as the type of bridge chosen.
