What is a Dental Bridge? Why do you need Bridges?

Why do you need Bridges?

Where teeth are lost due to injury or decay, the resultant gap must be closed as soon as possible in order to better preserve one’s oral structure, function and comfort. The main reason behind this is that where gaps occur in the mouth, the remaining natural teeth have a tendency to shift out of position in order to close the gap.

Needless to say, this can create problems with one’s bite, the shape of one’s face, and it can even interfere with their ability to speak normally. Depending upon your specific situation, your dentist may recommend a dental bridge to resolve the gaps left by missing teeth. It can be either a removable bridge or permanent bridge.

Say Goodbye to Tooth Gaps!

Dental bridges are a type of tooth replacement that replaces one or more missing teeth. They’re used to keep the shape of your face and jaw, as well as improve your chewing and speaking abilities.

A dentist will take an impression of your mouth with a special moulding material, which will be sent to a dental lab where your bridge will be created.

In most cases, depending on the materials used for the bridge, this process can take anywhere from two weeks to several months.

Are Dental Bridges permanent?

Traditional dental bridges are usually permanent, but there are some cases where they aren’t. Traditional dental bridges will necessitate regular checkups to ensure that the teeth on either side of the bridge remain strong and healthy. If you have a missing tooth, you should talk to your dentist or periodontist about the various options for replacing it. Fixed and removable dental bridges are the two most common types.

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Are Dental Bridges removable?

Dental bridges are constructed of porcelain and are used to “bridge” the gap between lost teeth. Removable dental bridges, often known as partial dentures, can be readily removed for cleaning and at night, whereas fixed dental bridges are permanently attached with powerful dental cement.

A portable dental bridge, commonly known as a removable partial denture (RPD), is made up of artificial teeth linked to a tiny, pink or gum-colored plastic base. A removable dental bridge is attached to dental implants or natural teeth on each side of the gap to be filled with tiny metal or flesh-colored attachments. When you need to clean them and brush your natural teeth, as well as at night before you go to bed, they are removed. A detachable dental bridge is a fantastic alternative if you still have part of your natural teeth.

  Todays Dental - Dental Bridges
Todays Dental – Dental Bridges

Are Dental Bridges cheaper than Implants?

Dental bridges are devices that are placed over the gaps created by missing teeth. They are anchored on adjacent teeth or dental implants. Dental bridges can be made of porcelain, gold or metal materials like titanium and nickel-chromium alloys. For many people, dental bridges are the ideal solution to replace missing teeth because they offer a permanent solution to tooth loss. The main disadvantage of dental bridges is that they require regular maintenance and care similar to natural teeth for prevention against decay and gum

Is an Implant More Cost-Effective Than a Bridge?

Implants are usually more expensive than bridges, especially if you need more than one.

Implants may also necessitate additional procedures such as a bone graft or sinus lift to increase the amount of bone supporting the implants, which increases the cost.

Are Dental Bridges Painful?

Teeth grow increasingly sensitive and susceptible to cavities as they age. A bridge can be used to replace a tooth that has gotten so rotten that it can no longer be salvaged. A bridge is a dental appliance that replaces one or more missing teeth. Fixed and detachable bridges are the two basic types of bridges.

Is it painful to prepare the dental bridge? 

Because a local anaesthetic is used to prepare your teeth and take an imprint, the bridge treatment is painless. Analgesics are rarely required after treatment for pain alleviation.

Myth: Bridges fall out easily.

Fact: There’s a prevalent misperception that dental bridges are flimsy and will fall out over time. While bridges can become loose over time, your dentist can quickly tighten them. Your bridge, on the other hand, is built to endure a lifetime, therefore the chances of it falling out are slim. Practicing good oral hygiene is a simple approach to lessen the possibilities of your bridge loosening or going out.

The Benefit of Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a tooth restoration device that quite literally bridges the gap that is created by one or several missing teeth. It is made up of a false tooth or false teeth (called pontics) and is supported on either side of the gap by crowns that are attached to natural teeth (called abutment teeth). Pontics can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain or some combination of these materials. These are designed with the idea of restoring ideal structure, function and comfort as closely as possible.

If you are suffering the undesirable effects caused by missing teeth, the placement of a dental bridge will help you to experience:

  • A restored smile
  • A restored ability to chew and speak properly
  • Maintained facial shape
  • Proper bite force distribution
  • Lack of remaining tooth movement


Dental Bridges

Receiving Dental Bridges

There are three primary types of dental bridges, each designed for a different purpose:

  1. Traditional bridges– These bridges are the most common type in use today. Made of porcelain fused to metal and ceramic and supported by crowns placed on abutment teeth.
  2. Cantilever bridges– Today these bridges are not used very often. They are never used at the back of the mouth because they can cause biting forces unevenly distribute to other teeth. Occasionally used in a situation of abutment teeth on one side of the gap. Also when your dentist determines it as the best solution.
  3. Maryland bonded bridges– These bridges have “wings” on one side, made of either metal or porcelain bonded to abutment teeth. They are either made of porcelain, porcelain fused to metal or plastic teeth and gums supported by metal or porcelain framework.


When your dentist has determined that a dental bridge is an appropriate solution for restoring your oral structure they will prepare you to come in for at least two visits.

First Visit-

During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the abutment teeth. To make room for a dental crown, the abutment teeth will need to be reduced in size and contoured. Your dentist will then take impressions of your teeth to make dental bridges specifically for your mouth. Finally, your dentist will create a temporary bridge to protect the prepared abutment teeth until the permanent bridge is placed in your mouth. He will send your dental impressions, measurements, and other necessary information to the dental laboratory. Once he receives your dental bridge, he will have you schedule your second dental visit.

Second Visit-

During the second dental visit, your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and place the new permanent bridge in your mouth. He will then adjust the bridge as necessary to ensure it is fitting properly and is comfortable. In many cases, fixed bridges are temporarily cemented into place. Further dental visits are scheduled to check and make sure the bridge is truly fitting properly. Once the dentist is satisfied that it is well adjusted and working as intended, he will permanently cement the bridge in place.


Following the Bridge Placement

It can take some time to get used to a dental bridge especially when it comes to eating and speaking. However, a dental bridge is designed to help make these important tasks easy and comfortable. After some time one will become accustomed to it and begin to eat and speak normally and naturally.

Well taken care of dental bridges can last for fifteen years, sometimes even longer. Your dentist will encourage you to maintain good oral hygiene habits. Visit him for regular examinations and cleanings in order to better ensure your bridge’s longevity.

For more information about dental bridges, Contact Todays Dental Now.

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