What You Need to Know About Dental Bridges: A Guide

A dental bridge is an artificial tooth that is used to fill a gap between two natural teeth. The bridge is held in place by the adjacent teeth that serve as anchors and is often made of ceramic, porcelain, or metal. It is a permanent dental restoration that can last for many years.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a common dental restoration used to replace missing teeth. A bridge consists of two crowns that are placed on either side of the gap created by the missing tooth and a false tooth, or pontic, that is placed in the space. This pontic is held in place by the two crowns and is held securely by being bonded to the adjacent teeth.

Dental bridges are typically made of porcelain fused with metal (PFM), which is a strong and durable material that can withstand the force of chewing. The bridge is custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth and can be matched to the color of the surrounding teeth.

Why Get Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge can improve the aesthetics of a smile by filling in the gaps caused by missing teeth. It can also help maintain the shape of the face and prevent the remaining teeth from shifting. This restoration also helps restore the proper bite and chewing function as well as speech impairment caused by missing teeth.

The process of getting a dental bridge usually requires two visits. During the first visit, the teeth adjacent to the gap are prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the crowns. Impressions of the teeth and the surrounding area are taken and sent to a laboratory for fabrication of the bridge. During the second visit, the bridge is placed on the teeth and adjusted to ensure a comfortable fit.

Pros of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are one of the most common treatments for missing teeth. They are a permanent solution to restore your smile and help maintain your dental health. A dental bridge is a prosthetic device that is placed on top of existing teeth or implants and used to fill in the gaps of missing teeth. It is a great option for people who are missing one or more teeth and want to improve their appearance and oral health. Here are some of the pros of getting dental bridges: 

1. Improved Appearance

Dental bridges can help restore your smile and improve the appearance of your teeth. It can also help to improve your facial structure and improve your self-esteem.

2. Durability

Dental bridges are considered to be a permanent solution to missing teeth. With proper care and maintenance, a dental bridge can last for years.

3. Comfort

Dental bridges are custom-made to fit your mouth, so they are comfortable and secure. They can also help to keep your teeth aligned and reduce the risk of gum disease.

4. Improved Function

With a dental bridge, you can eat and speak normally. It also helps to restore your ability to properly chew and digest food.

5. Cost-Effective

Dental bridges are a cost-effective solution to missing teeth. They are also a much more affordable option than dental implants.

Conclusion

Dental bridges are a beneficial treatment option for those with missing teeth. Bridges provide a secure and comfortable fit that can help restore the natural look and feel of the mouth. Additionally, bridges can help to maintain the proper alignment of the teeth, reducing the risk of further dental issues. Furthermore, bridges are a cost-effective option that can last up to fifteen years with proper care. All of these benefits make dental bridges a great choice for those seeking a solution to their missing teeth.

If you need a ceramic bridge, schedule an appointment with Watertown Dentistry. We provide preventive dentistry, periodontal care, and endodontics. We also offer cosmetic dentistry, bridgework using ceramic bridge technology, dentures, porcelain crowns, and veneers.