The dental field has exploded with innovative new procedures over the past twenty years. One procedure that might not be new but is definitely effective is dental bridges. Dental bridges are a way to overcome the loss of a tooth or group of teeth due to periodontal disease or injury. There are also times when people are born missing teeth, in which case a dental bridge is an excellent way to enhance your smile that offers benefits over other cosmetic procedures. If you are considering a dental bridge in Fairfield, CT, these are all the answers you need to decide if they are for you.
What are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a system that uses an artificial tooth or artificial teeth, which are known as pontics. The artificial tooth is inserted where you are missing a tooth or teeth. The pontic gets support from the teeth that surround it, which are called abutments. The pontic is then fastened to the pontic using dental crowns and set on your existing tooth. A dental bridge is used when there is more than one artificial place: more pontics result in more abutments.
What are the Different Types of Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges can be made from various materials such as stainless steel, porcelain, and gold. Because they are often visible, bridges that are made from porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal are most commonly preferred by patients. There are four different design types.
Traditional
A traditional bridge is made from one pontic or more that is attached to either side of a crown. They are cemented onto the abutments. Traditional bridges are the most common types used, but you do need to have a natural tooth on either side of the tooth that needs to be replaced.
Maryland
Similar to traditional bridges, Maryland bridges also require and use abutments surrounding the pontic for support. Rather than using dental crowns, however, the pontic uses a framework of porcelain extensions cemented to the back of abutment teeth. Maryland bridges are not typically used due to their lack of support.
Cantilever
Also similar to traditional bridges, cantilever designs use the pontic on just one side, not both sides of the missing tooth or teeth. They only require one tooth for support but are also not common because they are not very stable and have a high fail rate.
Implant-Supported
The implant-supported design uses support from an implant framework rather than abutments. An implant into the jawbone is surgically placed and then capped by a dental crown. You need an implant for each tooth that is missing or you can use a dental bridge over one pontic or more that is suspended between the crowns.
What are the Benefits of Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are advantageous for people who are missing a tooth or teeth because they provide a restorative solution that is both aesthetically pleasing and cost-effective. Unlike removable dentures, they are a permanent solution and are comfortable for both talking and eating. They also stop teeth from shifting and causing bite alignment problems in the future. Bridges do not require long visits and can usually be completed in two or three appointments. And they can typically last up to ten to fifteen years with proper care.
If you are looking for a solution to a missing tooth or missing teeth, you have many options, and bridges are just one of them. The best way to decide is to schedule an appointment with our office for an examination and discuss which options are best for your situation, budget, and preferences. Schedule your appointment to discuss the potential of getting bridges in Fairfield, CT today!