Dental Bridges in Stafford, VA
Dental Bridges
If you’ve suffered from severe tooth decay or gum disease that resulted in missing teeth, you’ve probably heard of a dental bridge as a possible solution. Dental bridges fill or bridge the gap caused by the loss of teeth. This is just one possible solution for missing teeth, so consult a dentist to determine if a bridge is the right option for you.
What is a Dental Bridge?
As we mentioned, a dental bridge closes the gap between missing teeth by anchoring a false tooth or teeth called pontics to the surrounding teeth, called abutment teeth. Each dental bridge has at least these two parts.
Abutment Teeth
Crowns are placed over the teeth on either side of the gap. The new artificial tooth or teeth anchors to these surrounding teeth and the abutment provides support needed to secure the new tooth in the mouth.
Pontics
These are the new artificial teeth that fill the gap where a natural tooth went missing. They are attached to the crowns on the abutment teeth.
Bridge Uses
Missing teeth can cause many problems in the mouth such as discomfort, pain, and changes in speech or eating patterns. Luckily, dental bridges can help alleviate these issues by filling the gap where the missing teeth once were. Consider dental bridges to:
- Prevent remaining teeth from moving into the gap
- Return speech patterns to normal
- Remove discomfort when chewing
- Improve the aesthetic appearance of your smile
Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional: This is the most popular type of dental bridge. This type is made from metal, porcelain fused to metal, or ceramic, and consists of one or more pontics connected to crowns on the surrounding abutment teeth.
Cantilever: This is a one-sided type of dental bridge where the pontic only connects to one abutment tooth. This is typically used for people with natural teeth on only one side of the gap where the missing tooth was.
Maryland: Common for missing teeth in the front of the mouth, this porcelain fused to metal or ceramic material bridge is supported by wings on each side of the pontic that bond to your existing teeth.
Implant Supported: This is the same as a traditional bridge but is supported by implant teeth instead of natural teeth.
Bridges vs. Implants
Bridges and implants are both treatment options for missing teeth, but they have a few differences. The main difference being that implants permanently attach a fake tooth to your jaw bone and are not supported by the surrounding teeth.
Implants are typically more durable than bridges. They also solve more dental health issues such as reducing bone loss. However, getting implants is a costly procedure, and can only be done one tooth at a time. Bridges are a more common solution if multiple teeth are missing, as it is much more cost effective.
Bridges, however, do place strain on the teeth surrounding them so it’s important to either have healthy teeth or implants on either side of the bridge. They are also slightly less durable than implants and will most likely have to be replaced in your lifetime.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the Stafford, VA or Washington, DC area, consult Precision Smile Dentistry to see if dental bridges are the right treatment option for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Come In For Check-Ups After Getting A Bridge?
Dental bridges still require routine six month visits. At each visit our dentist will check the restoration, the teeth that support it and the surrounding gum tissue to make sure that all is functioning well.
How Long Does A Dental Bridge Last?
A dental bridge generally lasts for anywhere from 10 to 15 years, although some may last longer than that. Dental hygiene, eating habits and regular dental checkups also play a role in the longevity of your restoration.
What Material Options Are Available, And How Do I Choose The Right One?
The materials used for bridges include all-ceramic, porcelain-fused-metal and metal alloy bridges. The location of the tooth, occlusal forces and aesthetics are all important considerations. Our dentists will consider all these variables and suggest the best material suitable for your case.
Can I Play Sports Or Wear A Mouthguard With A Dental Bridge?
Yes, we strongly recommend a custom-fitted mouthguard if you play contact sports. A standard over-the-counter guard may not fit well over a bridge. Use custom sports guards to accommodate and protect your restoration.
Is There Any Risk Of Allergic Reaction To The Bridge Materials?
Metal allergies, particularly to nickel or other alloys used in some porcelain-fused-to-metal bridges, are possible but uncommon. If you have a history of being allergic to any metal or have been affected by it in the past, do let us know.