Dental bridge
Dental bridges are designed for people who want to fill gaps resulting from tooth extraction. A dental bridge is a natural alternative to dental implants, both in terms of cost - placing a bridge is usually cheaper than the implant placement procedure - and due to individual predispositions.
Dental bridge
A dental bridge fills the gap created by one or more missing teeth. The teeth on which the bridge is ultimately placed are called abutment teeth. A pontic (artificial tooth) is placed between them, which can be made of porcelain, metal alloys, or a combination of these materials. In addition to natural teeth, an implant previously placed in the jaw can also serve as a support for the dental bridge.
Why is it worth restoring a missing tooth with a dental bridge?
Aesthetics are increased – the bridge replaces extracted teeth well
The proper structure of the teeth is restored - chewing and speaking are made easier
Allows for even distribution of forces during biting
Stabilizes other teeth within the mandible and maxilla
Contraindications to a dental bridge:
Too great a distance between adjacent teeth and the gap
Teeth that are too weak to support a bridge
Too sensitive mucosa (material intolerance)
Impossible proper alignment of the mandible and maxilla (inadequate occlusion between the bridge and the natural teeth)
Placing a dental bridge – stages:
During the first visit to the dentist, the abutment teeth are prepared. The procedure involves removing a portion of the enamel and grinding the teeth in a way that allows a crown to be placed on them. Next, dental impressions are made to serve as a model from which the dental technician fabricates the actual bridge. Until the bridge is ready, the dentist places a temporary bridge for the patient to protect the exposed and previously ground teeth.
During the second visit the temporary bridge is removed and the permanent one is fitted. Sometimes, another visit may be necessary to check and optimally adjust the bridge to achieve a proper, comfortable bite. After this stage, the new dental bridge is permanently cemented.
Three main types of dental bridges
Traditional bridge – the most common, involves creating a bridge on both sides of the missing tooth. These bridges are usually made of porcelain fused to metal or ceramics.
Cantilever bridge – used when adjacent teeth are located only on one side of the missing tooth or teeth. This is no longer such a common solution and is practiced most often in the back of the mouth, where there are not as high forces during chewing or biting as in the case of front teeth.
Maryland bridge – most commonly used as a temporary solution, for example, before implant placement. They are less durable, but do not require preparation of the teeth adjacent to the gap. They are made of porcelain or porcelain fused to metal. The artificial tooth is attached to the adjacent ones using special metal or plastic elements that are clipped behind the healthy teeth.
The lifespan of a dental bridge is estimated at over a dozen years. Much depends on maintaining proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. It is important to maintain proper teeth care rules. It is recommended to brush teeth at least twice a day, use dental floss and antiseptic mouthwashes. Daily hygiene performed this way also helps prevent the development of tooth decay and gum disease.
Replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge should make eating easier, but until the patient gets used to the bridge, they should eat soft or finely chopped foods.
