Replacing Missing Teeth with Dental Bridges

A missing tooth not only creates an unsightly gap, but it also affects the structural and functional integrity of the remaining teeth. Both permanent and temporary teeth have a role to play in our oral health. Losing either prematurely puts you at risk of a number of problems that include;

• Bone loss
• Gum loss
• Facial collapse
• Shifting teeth
• Speech problems
• Low self-esteem
• Difficulty chewing

To avoid any of the above issues, we at Open Wide Dental recommend getting dental bridges. We offer services related to dental bridges in Phoenix, AZ area.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A bridge is simply a replacement tooth to close the gap left by a missing tooth. Typically, a bridge consists of 2 crowns, one on each side of the gap, and a false tooth or teeth to fill the gap that is called a pontic. The two teeth that are covered by the crowns are generally to offer support and are referred to as abutment teeth. Abutment teeth can either be natural or dental implants. Dental bridges can be made from gold, porcelain or alloys. The material used is mostly a patient’s preference.

Types of Bridges

You can find a variety of dental bridges in Phoenix at our clinic. There are generally three types that are commonly used and it’s your dentist that will determine the right option that suits your condition.

Traditional Fixed Bridges

This consists of 2 or more crowns and a pontic tooth in between. The crowns are put over the teeth or implants adjacent to the gap. Traditional bridges are the most popular type of bridge and can be made from either porcelain fused to metal or ceramic. The pontic tooth does not always have to be one, they can be more depending on the existing gap. And to secure the bridge, the crowns are usually cemented in place.

Cantilever Bridges

This type of bridge is used when there are teeth present on only one side of the missing tooth/teeth. it is also used when there is no aesthetic appeal in preparing teeth on both sides of the gap or when the existing teeth already support another prosthetic. The method is however not suitable when put at the back of the mouth as it may put too much pressure on the other teeth and damage them.

Maryland Bonded Bridges

They are also called resin bonded or Maryland bridges and are used to mostly replace teeth that are missing at the front, the central and lateral incisors. They include a false tooth with wing extensions on one or both sides that are glued to the inner side of the adjacent teeth. It is a minimally invasive restoration treatment that preserves tooth tissue. The crown of the pontic tooth is usually made of porcelain fused to metal or ceramic and metal wing extensions. Considering their structure, Maryland bridges may not be the best for replacing several missing teeth in a row or in areas with strong masticatory forces.

Why are Bridges Important

If lost teeth are not replaced, your face collapses and you begin to look much older than you really are. The lips appear thin and flat while your chin moves forwards and upwards and appears pointed. Also, you may lose some bone mass on the aw and the remaining teeth may start to drift out of position into the space, changing your bite. However, through using dental bridges to replace missing tooth, all these problems are avoided and you are able to enjoy better and improved oral health. Your confidence levels also improve since you are able to practice speech properly and smile without fear of negative attention.

If you are in phoenix area and you are considering getting dental bridges, do not hesitate to visit our clinic or contact us to book your appointment today. We are dedicated to providing quality, effective and safe dental treatments to all our patients. Our dentist will keenly evaluate your situation to give a proper diagnosis and provide the most suitable treatment plan.