It is helpful to understand the different types of dental bridges to determine why your dentist may recommend a specific one. All dental bridges accomplish the same goal, which is to replace a missing tooth or a section of missing teeth. However, depending on the patient’s goals and the status of their oral health, a certain type of dental bridge may be preferable.
The four main types of dental bridges are fixed bridges, cantilever bridges, Maryland bonded bridges, and implant-supported bridges. Although similar, there are small differences in the treatment processes for each one. This review discusses those processes and the benefits of the four types of dental bridges.
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. There are two main components to a dental bridge: the bridge itself and the abutments. The abutments are natural teeth that are supported by dental crowns. However, a bridge can be supported by dental implants as well.
A fixed bridge is the most common type of dental bridge. This refers to a bridge that is supported by two abutment teeth. The abutment teeth exist on each side of the gap left by the missing teeth. Attached to the abutments are dental crowns, which ensure that the pontic teeth that make up the bridge have adequate support. A fixed bridge likely requires the dentist to remove some of the enamel on the abutment teeth to make room for the bridge. A fixed bridge can be applied to any tooth, including premolars and molars.
A cantilever bridge is similar to a fixed bridge. However, the bridge is only attached to one abutment rather than an abutment on each side. Subsequently, cantilever bridges are less reliable than a fixed bridge, but they still should provide adequate support when they are recommended by a dentist. Of course, not every patient is eligible for a cantilever, depending on the status of their oral health and teeth replacement needs.
Maryland bonded bridges, also called resin-bonded bridges, are most often applied to teeth in the front of the mouth that are more visible. They are held in place by metal or porcelain bands that are attached to the back of the abutment teeth. They are preferable for replacing front teeth because they do not require placing crowns on the abutment teeth. However, they are not nearly as durable as fixed bridges or cantilever bridges.
Implant-supported bridges are bridges that are held together by dental implants. With these types of dental bridges, the implants replace the abutment teeth. This is typically preferred when the patient does not have adjacent teeth that can support the bridge.
If you would like to learn more about the different types of dental bridges, reach out to our dental practice today to arrange a consultation visit, during which we can discuss available treatment options.
Request an appointment here: https://oakstreetfamilydental.com or call Oak Street Family Dental at (925) 301-4289 for an appointment in our Brentwood office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bridges in Brentwood, CA.
A dental bridge is one of the most popular solutions for lost teeth. According to the American Dental Association, most adults between ages 20 and 64 have at least one or two decayed or missing teeth. Fortunately, with a dental bridge, a dentist can cover the gap between the teeth to restore your smile.The following…
A dental bridge is a common dental restoration used for replacing lost teeth, whether the loss was due to trauma, structural damage, infection or decay. The dental bridge is as the name implies; a bridge over the gap created by a missing tooth. The teeth on the sides of the gap function as anchors and…
CEREC® crowns are a popular dental restoration option for individuals needing to repair a tooth that is in bad shape. These types of crowns offer an array of benefits that traditional crowns cannot bring to the table. Keep reading to learn more about CEREC® dental crowns.Outlined below are a few of the benefits of CEREC…
CEREC® crowns are becoming more and more popular as they offer an array of benefits that traditional dental crowns do not. However, because they are relatively new to dentistry, many people still have questions about what they are and what the treatment process entails.Below is a quick overview of CEREC dental crowns. This information can…
Dental veneers are a popular way to transform your smile and a common cosmetic dental service offered by general dentists. These thin, shell-like porcelain or composite resin covers go directly over the front of natural teeth after a quick preparation process. Because of their ability to make teeth appear uniform in shape, size, and color…
A dental restoration is required to restore tooth structure lost due to tooth decay or injury. Dental restorations fix teeth that have been cracked, chipped, fractured or have cavities. Various restoration techniques are intended to restore various degrees of damage. This article reviews different approaches to repairing damaged teeth.There are two kinds of dental restorations:…