Types of Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. The bridge is anchored to healthy teeth on either side of the gap left by the missing tooth or teeth, and these anchor teeth are called abutments. The false teeth or teeth in between are called pontics. At Phoenix Family Dentistry, A dental bridge is custom-made to fit your mouth perfectly. It’s designed to match the color of your natural teeth so that it blends in with the rest of your smile. 

To place a bridge, the dentist in Phoenix first prepares the teeth on either side of the gap by removing some of the enamel to make room for the crowns. Next, they take impressions of your teeth to create the bridge. While the new bridge is being made, a temporary bridge is placed to protect the exposed teeth and gums. When the permanent bridge is ready, the temporary bridge is removed, and the permanent bridge is cemented in place. 

Types of Dental Bridges 

Traditional Dental Bridges 

A traditional bridge is a false tooth held in place by crowns on adjacent teeth. The crowns are cemented onto the existing teeth, and the false tooth is fused between them. 

Cantilever Bridge 

A cantilever bridge is used when only one adjacent tooth is on one side of the gap. This bridge consists of a crown for the abutment tooth with a suspended pontic. 

Maryland Bridge 

A Maryland bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, but the pontic is held in place by a metal framework instead of dental crowns. This type of bridge requires less preparation of the abutment teeth than the traditional bridge. 

Implant Supported Bridge 

An implant-supported bridge uses dental implants as anchors instead of crowns. These implants are surgically placed into the jawbone. Once the bone fuses with the titanium post, the bridge is attached to it. 

The Benefits of Dental Bridges 

• Missing teeth can make you look older and cause embarrassment when you smile. A dental bridge in Phoenix can restore the appearance and function of your smile. 
• Your teeth help you speak and eat properly. When you lose a tooth, these functions can be compromised. A dental bridge restores your ability to eat and speak normally. 
• When a missing tooth leaves a gap, the teeth on either side may shift out of place to fill the gap. A dental bridge prevents this shifting and keeps your teeth aligned. 
• Replacing missing teeth protects the health of your remaining teeth and can prevent gum disease and other oral health issues. 
• A beautiful smile can boost your confidence and help you feel better. 

A dental bridge can help restore the look and function of your smile. Visit Phoenix Family Dentistry at 13821 N 35th Dr Suite 2, Phoenix 85053, or call (602) 755-6684 to see if a bridge is right for you.