The Different Types of Dental Bridges

At J. Whitley Wills, DDS, a dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device designed to replace one or more missing teeth by spanning the gap between adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. It typically consists of two crowns on either side, known as abutments, which anchor an artificial tooth or teeth in between, referred to as pontics. Dental bridges offer a functional and aesthetic solution for restoring the appearance of a complete smile, improving bite function, and preventing issues that can arise from tooth loss, such as shifting surrounding teeth and difficulty chewing. The procedure involves preparing the adjacent teeth for crowns, creating a custom bridge, and permanently affixing it to provide a stable and lasting dental restoration.

The Types of Dental Bridges

Traditional Dental Bridges

Traditional bridges are the most common type, consisting of pontics placed by dental crowns on either side. The crowns are cemented onto the natural teeth adjacent to the gap, serving as abutments. This type effectively replaces one or more missing teeth in a row.

Cantilever Dental Bridges

Cantilever bridges are similar to traditional ones but use a single dental crown as an anchor instead of two. This makes them suitable when only one adjacent tooth is next to the gap. While less common, cantilever bridges are a viable option in specific situations.

Maryland (Resin-Bonded) Dental Bridges

Maryland bridges utilize a framework of metal or porcelain wings on the backside of the adjacent teeth, eliminating the need for crowns. The pontic is attached to these wings and is bonded to the adjacent teeth with resin. This type is a conservative option often chosen for replacing front teeth.

Implant-Supported Dental Bridges

Implant-supported bridges are anchored to dental implants instead of natural teeth. Dental implants, surgically placed in the jawbone, serve as stable foundations for the bridge. This type is highly durable and provides additional benefits, such as preserving jawbone density.

Advantages of Dental Bridge

Aesthetic Improvement

Dental bridges in Memphis, TN, restore the appearance of a complete smile by filling in gaps left by missing teeth. This aesthetic enhancement can boost confidence and improve self-esteem.

Functional Restoration

Bridges restore the ability to bite and chew properly, preventing difficulties in eating that may arise from missing teeth. This functional improvement contributes to better overall oral health and nutrition.

Prevention of Teeth Shifting

Dental bridges prevent adjacent teeth from shifting into the gap by filling the space left by a missing tooth. This helps maintain the proper alignment of teeth and prevents potential bite and jaw alignment issues.

Speech Improvement

Missing teeth can impact speech clarity. Dental bridges help restore proper articulation and pronunciation, improving speech for enhanced communication.

Dental bridges are not just about filling the gaps in a smile but about restoring confidence, function, and overall oral health. To explore the best bridge option tailored, Visit J. Whitley Wills, DDS, at 59 S Idlewild St, Memphis, TN 38104, or call (901) 726-9525 to your unique dental needs and bridge the gap to a lifetime of smiles and well-being.