Dental bridges are often the right solution to restore a smile that’s missing a tooth. They’re among the most common restorative dentistry treatments and can help you enjoy a full, healthy, and beautiful smile once more. Here’s what you need to know about dental bridges and how they can help you.

What are dental bridges?

Dental bridges are a restorative dentistry treatment option that bridges the gap created by one or more missing teeth. A dental bridge relies on adjacent natural teeth for support, creating a strong foundation that enables effective speaking and chewing, along with looking natural.

There are several components of a dental bridge. The pontic is the artificial tooth that’s replacing the missing tooth. It is typically attached to two abutment crowns, which will go over the surrounding natural teeth. Those abutment teeth are prepared just like they would be if you were getting regular dental crowns on them.

This type of arrangement is often called a traditional bridge, and they are typically the most widely used. However, not every situation is the same, and some call for other methods. Several additional types of dental bridges could be right for your needs.

For instance, a cantilever bridge is supported by just one abutment tooth instead of one on each side. They are used in cases where there aren’t natural teeth on both sides of the gap, such as a bridge to replace a molar at the back of the mouth. While only supported on one side, cantilever bridges are still strong.

A Maryland bridge is similar to a partial denture in that it is removable. Instead of requiring the preparation of abutment teeth and permanent bonding, it uses a metal framework to hold onto the surrounding teeth. This provides a tooth replacement solution without impacting other teeth.

Implant-supported bridges are another potential option. They’re similar to traditional dental bridges, except they rely on a dental implant as a foundation. These are titanium posts implanted in the jawbone, providing incredible strength and durability.

The Process of Getting a Dental Bridge

The first step to getting a dental bridge is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. Every case of missing teeth is unique, so you need to find the solution that’s best for your situation. Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and your needs to develop a custom treatment plan. They’ll also tell you more about dental bridges or other options. 

Once a dental bridge is decided on, the abutment teeth must be prepared. Your dentist will remove enamel from the exterior of the abutment teeth, creating uniform bases that will offer a good foundation. They will then take impressions of your smile to ensure that the bridge is a perfect fit.

The impressions are sent to a dental lab that creates a custom bridge. It is tailored to suit your smile perfectly. In the meantime, the abutment teeth must be protected. You’ll be provided with a temporary bridge during that period. It may not be a perfect match, but it will keep your smile safe.

You’ll come back to the office once your permanent bridge arrives from the dental lab. Your dentist will attach the bridge to the abutment teeth, making any final adjustments as needed. Your dental bridge is now permanently in place, restoring your smile to like-new condition.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges bring a wide range of benefits. First, they’re a natural-looking solution for the gap left by a missing tooth. Your custom dental bridge will fit in seamlessly with your existing teeth, providing a perfect match that restores your beautiful smile.

Bridges also help you eat and speak effectively. Gaps can complicate these everyday tasks, reducing your quality of life. Dental bridges let you eat and talk like normal, providing a strong and lasting hold that gives you a full range of jaw movement without any slipping or awkward feeling.

A missing tooth is also a serious oral health concern. The teeth beside the gap can slide into it over time, making your smile crooked and misaligned. You could need orthodontic treatment eventually. A dental bridge stops this by filling that gap. This also impacts your facial structure, allowing you to maintain a natural and symmetrical appearance.

More about dental bridges from the best dentist in Greenville, South Carolina.

If you have missing teeth, it’s in your best interests to visit Monroe Family Dentistry dental offices in Greenville, South Carolina, to find out more about tooth replacement options. We provide a full range of treatments, including dental bridges. Let us find the right treatment to meet your unique needs and restore your smile. Schedule a consultation with Monroe Family Dentistry today.