Dealing with the loss of one tooth is difficult enough, but many patients have to live and work around multiple missing teeth. If you or a loved one suffers from the difficulty that comes from missing multiple teeth, dental implants provide a solution.
Our dental implants can be used to replace one tooth or several missing teeth in a row. The type of prosthetic attached to the implants for multiple missing teeth is known as a dental bridge.
What is a Dental Bridge?
Traditional dental bridges are multiple prosthetic teeth attached together to create one prosthetic. This prosthetic is held in place by the existing teeth on either side. It is most often made from porcelain to match the color of your surrounding teeth.
We offer several types of dental bridges.
Types of Dental Bridges
You can have dental bridges placed just about anywhere in your mouth, including a front dental bridge or bridges for your back teeth. Over the years, several distinctive types of dental bridges have developed and are currently the most popular tooth replacement option used by dentists around the nation.
Traditional
Traditional dental implants have prosthetic teeth that are held in place with dental crowns. The dental crowns are placed over the top of the adjacent teeth and cemented in place, giving the prosthetic bridge stability. This technique can be used when natural teeth exist on either side of the gap for anchorage support.
Maryland
The only difference between Maryland dental bridges and traditional bridges is that rather than use crowns over the top of the adjacent teeth, this technique holds the prosthetic bridge in place with a framework of metal or porcelain bonded to the backs of the real teeth. You’ll need to have existing teeth in place to use this technique or the traditional bridge placement.
Cantilever
The cantilever approach is like a halfway traditional. You’ll only need one existing real tooth to hold the bridge in place. A crown will be placed over that tooth and it will act as an anchor for the bridge prosthetic.
Implant-Supported
Implant-supported dentures are one of the most secure ways to place a dental bridge. Typically, a dental implant is placed for each missing tooth. This implant holds the bridge in place. There is also an option to use two implant-supported crowns on either end of the bridge to keep the device anchored.
Removable Dental Bridge
A removable dental bridge option is available for interested patients. Lost teeth are replaced by a bridge that is supported by a metal framework attached to natural teeth or implant-supported crowns. The bridge can be removed when necessary, for cleaning or other purposes, and be replaced, much like a retainer.
Dental Bridge Procedure
- Before we start a dental bridge, we take an assessment of your teeth.
- Once we determine that a dental bridge is the best option, we provide a thorough examination and take several x-rays and digital images. We then decide on a specific type of dental bridge.
- Next comes tooth preparation and a temporary bridge. The teeth that will be used as anchors—in the case of a traditional, Maryland, or cantilever placement—will be prepared and shaped for the incoming dental bridge.
- If a dental implant is needed, that will be placed first and some time will be needed for healing.
- Some patients might be fitted with a temporary bridge during this time while waiting for the permanent one.
- Your permanent bridge will be placed when you are ready.
- A dental bridge can help return the function of your teeth and give you a full, beautiful smile again.
Dental Bridge Before and After
Going from having multiple missing teeth in your smile to having none at all will be a night and day shift! You’ll be able to eat, laugh, and communicate more easily, not to mention you won’t feel any self-consciousness over missing teeth.
Dental Bridge Repair
Dental bridges are designed to last decades, however, there can and will be instances where they need to be repaired. You should be sure to keep in touch with your dentist and have your bridge checked out regularly to prevent such situations as best you can.
Can a Dental Bridge Be Removed and Re-Cemented?
Dental bridges can be removed and re-cemented, though it’s not uncommon for the dental cement used to cause some damage to the teeth it was used on. This is because the cement was designed to keep everything in place for many years.
That’s why a dental implant-supported bridge can be a better option—more secure from the start and no need for dental cement.
Dental Bridge Price
The average cost of a dental bridge depends on the type of dental bridge you need. The price will also depend on the number of teeth missing, the complexity of the placement, and the materials used. We accept several forms of payment and can discuss payment plans with you if necessary.
How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?
Dental bridges are designed to last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. With proper care, appointments, and maintenance, your bridge should last you a long time.
Trust Compassionate Dental Care to Connect You With a Dental Implant Dentist Today
Find “dental bridges near me” and other types of dental implant technology and options from Compassionate Dental Care. Call us today to schedule a FREE Dental Implant Consultation at (847) 854-7645. We are excited to walk you through the dental implant process and discuss a treatment plan for your beautiful, new, confident smile!
