Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a prosthetic device to replace missing teeth and restore both function and aesthetics. It typically consists of one or more pontic teeth (artificial teeth) that are anchored to the adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. The bridge spans the gap left by missing teeth, effectively "bridging" the space. There are several types of dental bridges, including traditional bridges supported by crowns on adjacent teeth, cantilever bridges that anchor to only one adjacent tooth, and Maryland-bonded bridges that use metal or porcelain wings bonded to the back of adjoining teeth. Implant-supported bridges are another option, where the pontic teeth are supported by dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. Dental bridges are custom-made to match existing teeth' natural color and contour, providing a seamless appearance. They help restore chewing function, prevent neighboring teeth from shifting, improve speech clarity, and enhance self-confidence by completing the smile. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential for maintaining the longevity and health of dental bridges. 

The Uses of Dental Bridges 

Restoring Missing Teeth

One of the primary uses of dental bridges is to replace missing teeth. A bridge can fill the gap left behind when a tooth is lost due to decay, trauma, or other dental conditions. This restoration improves the smile's appearance and restores the ability to chew and speak properly. Contact us today!

Maintaining Facial Structure and Bite Alignment

Missing teeth can change facial structure over time, as neighboring teeth may shift into the space. This can alter the alignment of the bite and affect overall oral health. Dental bridges help prevent these changes by "bridging" the gap and maintaining the natural position of adjacent teeth. 

Improving Chewing Function

A dental bridge restores the ability to chew food effectively, essential for proper nutrition and digestion. Bridges enable patients to enjoy a wider variety of foods and maintain a balanced diet by replacing missing teeth. 

Enhancing Speech Clarity

Missing teeth can affect speech clarity and pronunciation. Dental bridges restore proper dental alignment, improving speech and articulation and helping patients speak more clearly and confidently. 

Preventing Adjacent Teeth from Shifting

When a tooth is lost, adjacent teeth may drift or tilt into the space, leading to misalignment and bite problems. Dental bridges stabilize the position of neighboring teeth, preventing them from shifting and maintaining the overall integrity of the dental arch. 

Restoring Aesthetic Appearance

Beyond functional benefits, dental bridges significantly improve a smile's aesthetic appearance. They are custom-made to match natural teeth' shape, size, and color, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking restoration. 

Types of Dental Bridges 

Traditional Bridges 

The most common type is also known as fixed bridges. It consists of one or more pontic teeth (artificial teeth) held in place by dental crowns (abutments) placed on the adjacent natural teeth. 

Advantages:

• Provides a stable and natural-looking restoration. 

• Helps maintain the alignment of adjacent teeth. 

• Restores chewing function and improves aesthetics. 

Cantilever Bridges 

These bridges are used when adjacent teeth are present only on one side of the missing tooth or teeth. The pontic tooth is supported by a single dental crown anchored to one adjacent tooth. 

Advantages:

• It requires the preparation of only one adjacent tooth, minimizing the impact on surrounding natural teeth. 

• Ideal when there is only one adjoining tooth available next to the gap left by a missing tooth. 

• Offers a stable restoration for replacing a single missing tooth without additional support on both sides. 

Maryland Bonded Bridges 

These bridges are bonded to the back of adjacent teeth with metal or porcelain wings, making them a conservative option requiring minimal adjoining teeth alteration. 

Advantages:

• Preserves the structure of adjacent teeth. 

• Less invasive procedure compared to traditional bridges. 

• Quick restoration of aesthetics and function. 

Implant-Supported Bridges 

These bridges are supported by dental implants that are surgically placed in the jawbone. They provide excellent stability and prevent bone loss in the jaw, offering a durable and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth. 

Advantages:

• Provides excellent stability and support. 

• Prevents bone loss in the jaw. 

• Does not require altering adjacent natural teeth. 

The Dental Bridge Procedure

The process of getting a dental bridge typically involves several steps: 

• The dentist evaluates the patient's oral health, discusses treatment options, and develops a personalized treatment plan. 

• The adjacent teeth (abutment teeth) are prepared for traditional and cantilever bridges by removing a portion of enamel to accommodate dental crowns. If implants are used, they are surgically placed in the jawbone. 

• Impressions of the teeth are taken to ensure the bridge fits precisely and matches the natural teeth. 

• A temporary bridge may be placed to protect the prepared teeth and gums while the permanent bridge is being fabricated. 

• The permanent bridge is checked for fit and aesthetics during the final visit before being cemented or bonded into place. For implant-supported bridges, the prosthetic teeth are attached to the implants. 

• Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor the bridge's function and the health of surrounding teeth and gums. 

Dental bridges play a pivotal role in restoring dental function, aesthetics, and confidence for patients who have lost teeth. If you're considering dental bridges to restore your smile and improve oral function, visit Dental Specialists of New York PC at 150 East 58th Street, New York, NY 10155, 110 York Street Brooklyn, NY 11201, or 476 48th Street, 3rd Floor Brooklyn, NY 11220, to explore your options and determine the best solution for your dental health. You can schedule an appointment online or call us at (212) 661-2192.