05
Mar
Things to know about dental bridges
When missing teeth have impacted your smile, it may be time to talk to a professional about replacing them with the help of Drs. Ty and Chad Bodily of Seasons Dental in Burley, Idaho, patients can replace missing teeth using dental bridges. This is a popular, affordable, and effective way of restoring your smile’s appearance and functionality without the expense of dental implants. Let’s look at how dental bridges, including fixed or permanent ones, replace missing teeth.
What is a dental bridge?
Our team at Seasons Dental serves patients in Burley, Idaho. The dental bridge is a restoration comprising a prosthetic tooth or several teeth attached to two dental crowns. These crowns anchor the bridge in place, using the healthy teeth on either side of the gap as support. The result is a seamless replacement for missing teeth that improves appearance and restores chewing and speaking function.
Are there different types of dental bridges?
Several types of dental bridges exist, including traditional, cantilever, and Maryland-bonded bridges. Traditional bridges involve two dental crowns on either side of the gap, with an artificial tooth suspended between them. Cantilever bridges use a similar method but only require one adjacent tooth for support. Maryland-bonded bridges are made using either a metal or porcelain/ceramic framework bonded to the back of the surrounding teeth, eliminating the need for dental crowns. Some bridges might also be fixed or “permanent,” held in place using dental implants.
How are dental bridges placed?
The specific process of placing a dental bridge typically requires two appointments. During the first visit to the office, our dental team prepares adjacent teeth by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the crowns. After that, a dental lab will take your impressions and send them to build your unique bridge. In the meantime, a temporary bridge can protect your exposed teeth and gums. Your permanent bridge will be fitted and adjusted for comfort at the second appointment before being permanently bonded.
What are the benefits of dental bridges?
Aside from improving appearance and restoring function, there are many other benefits, including:
- Affordability: Dental bridges are typically more affordable than quality dental implants, making them an excellent option for patients on a budget.
- Quick and minimally invasive procedure: Compared to our other tooth replacement options, dental bridges can be placed in just two different appointments and involve minimal discomfort or recovery time.
- Preserving natural teeth: By using adjacent healthy teeth as support for the bridge, there is no need to alter or damage surrounding natural teeth like with dental implants.
- Preventing shifting of remaining teeth: When missing teeth leave a gap, neighboring teeth can shift and cause misalignment. Dental bridges help maintain proper spacing and prevent this issue.
Who can I contact to learn more about dental bridges for my smile?
Drs. Ty and Chad Bodily assist Burley, Idaho, area patients with a wide range of solutions for their smiles. If you think dental bridges might be right for you, we invite you to contact our office to request an upcoming appointment. We are conveniently located at 425 North Overland Avenue and can be reached by calling (208) 430-9555.