Patient in Phoenix Asks, “Which Type of Dental Bridge Is Appropriate for Me?”

Tooth loss can have a significant impact on an individual’s confidence and desire to smile. Patients who have experienced tooth loss have many options to restore their smiles and functionality, including dental implants, full or complete dentures, dental crowns, and bridges.

What Are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are named such because they use false teeth, called pontics, which literally span the gap between teeth that is caused by the loss of one or more teeth. A bridge is typically anchored on either side by a dental crown, secured to abutment teeth, which may be natural teeth or dental implants.

There Are Several Benefits to Treatment With a Dental Bridge, Such As:

• Cosmetic smile restoration
• Restore function, like chewing and speaking comfortably
• Fill out facial features that may have a sunken appearance with tooth loss
• Balance the forces of the bite
• Maintain the position of surrounding teeth

Types of Dental Bridges

The Most Common Types of Dental Bridges Are:

• Traditional fixed – generally made of porcelain with metal or ceramics, they consist of dental crowns and prosthetic pontics
• Maryland bonded – may also be called resin-bonded and are most commonly used to replace front teeth and are supported by a metal framework
• Cantilever – when there are only supporting teeth on one side of the gap

What Type of Bridge Is Most Appropriate?

To determine if you are an appropriate candidate for a dental bridge or other treatment, Dr. Frost at Biltmore Dental Center will provide a thorough consultation and recommend a personalized plan of care. Treatment involves preparation of the abutment teeth to accommodate a dental crown, which will secure the bridge. Impressions of the teeth will be made and sent to a dental laboratory. In the meantime, a temporary bridge may be placed to protect the abutment teeth. When the final bridge is received, Dr. Frost will place and adjust it for the proper fit.

With a comprehensive array of advanced dental care, including restorative, family, emergency, cosmetic, and sedation dentistry, our gentle and compassionate team at Biltmore Dental Center can have you smiling with ease and comfort again. Call us today at (602) 704-0659 .