What is Dental / Teeth Bridge?
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A dental bridge is a solution for replacing missing teeth, whether it’s a single tooth or a row of teeth. As the name suggests, this appliance “bridges the gap” in your smile, restoring both function and appearance.
Dentists can create custom bridges that perfectly match the shade of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural look.
Types of Dental Bridges​
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Dentists tailor dental bridges to meet your specific oral health needs. Here are the four main types of dental bridges:
Traditional Dental Bridge
This is the most frequently used type of dental bridge. It features dental crowns (caps) on both ends with pontics (artificial teeth) in between. The crowns are bonded to your natural teeth (abutments) on either side of the gap, securing the pontics in place. Traditional dental bridges are ideal when you have healthy natural teeth on both sides of the gap.
Cantilever Dental Bridge
Similar to a traditional bridge, a cantilever bridge has a crown on only one end. The bridge is bonded to your abutment tooth, with the pontic extending across the gap. Cantilever bridges are used when there are natural teeth on only one side of the gap. However, due to their design, cantilever bridges aren’t as strong as traditional bridges.
Maryland Dental Bridge
A Maryland bridge, or resin-bonded bridge, uses metal or porcelain wings instead of crowns to secure the bridge. These wings are bonded to the backs of the neighboring teeth. Maryland bridges are typically used for front teeth because they aren’t strong enough to handle the chewing forces of back teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridge
An implant-supported bridge rests atop dental implants instead of natural teeth. Dental implants are small threaded posts that replace missing tooth roots. The implants need to fully integrate with your jawbone, a process that takes three to six months on average. Implant-supported bridges are ideal for replacing three or more missing teeth in a row.
Who Might Need a Dental Bridge?
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A dental bridge is a great solution for anyone with one or more missing teeth. Whether the gap is due to injury, decay, or gum disease, a dental bridge can effectively restore both the function and appearance of your smile.
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5 Signs You Might Need a Dental Bridge
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You have one or more missing teeth.
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You experience difficulty chewing or speaking.
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Your remaining teeth have shifted.
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You feel self-conscious about your smile.
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You’ve had gum disease or tooth decay.
Expert Dental Clinic for Tooth Bridges
At Dr. K and Associates Dental Centre, we offer expert dental bridge solutions to replace missing teeth and enhance your smile. Our skilled team provides quality, efficient procedures with personalized care, ensuring you achieve the best results for a healthy, beautiful smile.
Don't wait, Call Now
If you’re missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge from Dr. K and Associates Dental Centre might be the perfect solution for you. Our skilled dental team provides affordable and customized dental bridge options to restore the function and aesthetics of your teeth.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey toward a healthy, complete smile.
Why choose Dr. K & Associates Dental Centre for a Dental Bridge?
Dr. K is a highly skilled and dedicated professional with over 20 years of experience. She is committed to restoring your smile with exceptional expertise and care. Using advanced, proven technologies and the latest techniques, Dr. K tailors your treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
We understand that visiting the dentist can be intimidating, so we guide you through each step, ensuring full transparency and comfort throughout the process.
Common Questions About Dental / Teeth Bridges
How long does a dental bridge last?
The lifespan of a dental bridge typically ranges from 5 to 15 years, with some lasting even longer with proper care and maintenance.
Dentists often refer to these as “permanent bridges” because only a dentist can remove them. However, they are not permanent in the sense of lasting forever. Over time, you will need to replace them as they show signs of wear or damage.
How long does it take to recover after a dental bridge procedure?
Recovery times after a dental bridge procedure can vary, but on average, it takes about one to two weeks for your teeth and gums to heal. It might take a bit longer for your new dental bridge to feel completely natural and comfortable. Factors such as individual healing rates and the complexity of the procedure can influence the recovery duration.
How can I care for my dental bridge?
Proper care for your dental bridge is essential to ensure its longevity and maintain your oral health. Here are some tips to keep your bridge in top condition:
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Brush and Floss Daily: Maintain a routine of brushing and flossing every day.
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Use a Nonabrasive Fluoride Toothpaste: This helps protect your teeth and bridge without causing damage.
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Clean Underneath Your Bridge: Use floss threaders or interproximal brushes to clean beneath your bridge daily.
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Avoid Hard or Chewy Foods: These can damage your bridge and surrounding teeth.
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Don’t Chew on Hard Objects: Avoid chewing on ice, pens, pencils, or your fingernails.
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Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Schedule regular checkups and cleanings to keep your bridge and overall oral health in check.
What are the alternatives to Dental Bridges?
If a dental bridge isn’t the right option for you, there are several alternatives to consider:
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a popular choice for replacing missing teeth. They involve surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as a replacement root. A crown is then attached to the post, providing a permanent solution that looks and feels like a natural tooth.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are removable appliances that can replace one or several missing teeth. They consist of artificial teeth attached to a plastic base that matches the color of your gums. Partial dentures are an affordable option and can be taken out for cleaning and maintenance.
Full Dentures
For those missing all their teeth, full dentures are a viable solution. These removable appliances replace an entire arch of teeth, restoring functionality and aesthetics. They are custom-made to fit your mouth and can be easily removed for cleaning.
Orthodontic Treatment
In some cases, orthodontic treatment can close gaps caused by missing teeth. Braces or clear aligners can shift teeth into the desired position, providing a more uniform smile without the need for artificial teeth.
Our dental team can guide you through all the options to find the best solution for your specific needs.
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