Dental bridges fill the gap between two or more healthy teeth. Many people experience functional problems due to missing teeth but are unsure how to address them. As a dental expert, I recommend dental bridges as an effective solution for replacing missing teeth. The bridge uses crowns to fill the space left by your missing tooth, helping to restore and maintain your oral health. In this article, I will discuss everything about dental bridges, including their function, cost, procedure, and how they can improve your quality of life. 

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a treatment designed to replace missing teeth or fill gaps between teeth. It can replace one tooth or several in a row. Dentists can customize bridges to match the shade of your natural teeth. Dental bridges consist of two main components: abutments and pontics. Abutments are connectors that support the dental bridge, while pontics (or false teeth) fill the gap left by the missing teeth and can be made of gold, alloys, or porcelain. A dental bridge is a smooth treatment that supports your natural teeth and dental implants. Before proceeding with a dental bridge, ensure you have a complete dental check-up. DailySmiles cares about your oral health and offers top-notch dental care services, including dental bridges.

Types of Dental Bridges

There are four main types of dental bridges. The dentist will recommend one based on the patient’s age, the number of missing teeth, the size of the gap, and the condition of the natural teeth on both sides of the gap.

Traditional Dental Bridge

This is the most common type of dental bridge for missing teeth. It is used when the patient has healthy teeth on both sides of the gap. The bridge consists of artificial teeth supported by crowns placed on the natural teeth.

Cantilever Dental Bridge

The cantilever bridge is similar to the traditional bridge but is supported on only one side. It is used when there is a natural tooth on one side of the gap. The dentist places a crown on the abutment (natural) tooth, and the pontic fills the gap. Cantilever bridges are generally not as strong as traditional bridges.

Maryland Dental Bridge

Like traditional bridges, the Maryland bridge features artificial teeth with two abutment teeth, one on each side. However, the abutment teeth are typically made of metal or porcelain. Maryland bridges are usually used to replace front teeth.

Implant-Supported Dental Bridge

In this type, dental implants are used to secure the bridge. A dental implant is a small screw that replaces the root of a missing tooth and is surgically placed in the jawbone. Implant-supported bridges are suitable for fixing three or more missing teeth in a row. This process typically requires two surgeries: the first to embed the implant in the jawbone, and the second to place the bridge. The entire process can take several months.

Procedure for Dental Bridges

Traditional and Cantilever Bridges

In traditional and cantilever bridge procedures, the dentist administers anesthesia to relax the patient. The natural teeth on either side of the gap are reshaped to support the new bridge. I prefer taking the patient’s tooth impression to create the final bridge at the dental lab. Dentists may use CAD/CAM technology to make custom bridges in their offices, following their recommendations. The new bridge is then attached to the natural teeth to fill the gap.

Maryland Dental Bridge

For the Maryland bridge, the metal framework is prepared and bonded to the natural teeth using dental resin cement.

Implant-Supported Bridge

For the implant-supported bridge, a dental implant is first placed in the jaw by a periodontist or oral surgeon. After healing, the patient returns to the dentist for the next steps. During the second visit, copings are attached to the implant to obtain the dental impression, and then the abutments and bridge are placed and secured with dental cement.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

• Restores your smile with a natural appearance and function.
• Prevents neighboring teeth from shifting into the gap.
• Adjusts your jaw structure and supports proper chewing and speaking.
• Dental bridges can last longer with proper care.

What Does a Dental Bridge Cost?

The cost of dental bridges varies based on several factors, including the number of teeth to be replaced, the complexity of the procedure, and any additional treatments needed for other dental issues. Costs also vary by type and material of the bridge:

• Traditional and cantilever bridges typically range from $2,000 to $5,000.
• Maryland bridges cost between $1,500 and $2,500.
• Implant-supported bridges are generally more expensive, costing between $5,000 and $15,000 for the complete procedure.

FAQs – Dental Bridge

Which is better: dental implant or bridge?

Both dental implants and bridges address the issue of missing teeth. Dental implants are a permanent solution that lasts longer without affecting adjacent teeth, while dental bridges typically need replacement every 5 to 15 years, depending on care.

What are the risks of dental bridges?

While dental bridges effectively treat gaps, they do have some drawbacks. If your natural teeth are damaged by decay, it can weaken the bridge. Improper cleaning can also lead to gum disease.

How long does it take for a dental bridge to heal?

Recovery time varies by individual, but on average, it takes about two to three weeks to recover from dental bridge placement.