A healthy set of teeth is essential for our overall well-being and oral health. Unfortunately, there are times when a tooth can be lost due to decay, structural damage, or other reasons. To replace these missing teeth, a dental bridge is commonly used to restore the patient’s smile and ensure that the surrounding teeth remain healthy and strong.
If your dentist has determined that you are a suitable candidate for one, the next step is to identify the correct type of bridge for your particular needs. While there are a few different types of bridges available, the most critical factor in determining which one is best for you is the condition of your teeth and the amount of support they can provide.
Traditional Bridges
A traditional dental bridge is one of the most popular and widely used types of dental bridges. It can be used to replace a missing tooth, allowing you to restore the natural look and function of your smile. This bridge is usually composed of two crowns, which are placed on either side of the gap left by the missing tooth. These two crowns are then connected by a false tooth, known as a pontic, to form the bridge.
The traditional bridge is an excellent option for many people because it is both strong and aesthetically pleasing. It is made from durable materials such as porcelain and metal, so it can withstand the forces of daily use without breaking down. Plus, the false tooth can be customized to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, allowing you to achieve a seamless and natural smile.
This bridge is also a cost-effective solution, as it can usually be completed in just two visits. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the surrounding teeth and take impressions of your mouth. This information will then be used to create a custom-fitted bridge designed to fit your mouth perfectly. The second visit involves placing the bridge and making adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit.
Cantilever Bridges
It is a specialized dental bridge that deviates in structure from its traditional counterpart. Unlike conventional bridges, which use two anchor teeth to secure the false tooth, cantilever bridges only use one anchor tooth.
These bridges are typically used when there is only one tooth to anchor the bridge, meaning that there are no adjacent teeth to support the bridge from both sides. It is also used if the other teeth are too weak to support an entire bridge.
Its primary benefit is that the anchoring tooth is subject to less stress than it would be compared to traditional bridges. It helps to reduce the risk of damage to the anchor tooth, and it can also help to reduce the cost associated with the bridge.
Maryland-Bonded Bridge
A Maryland bonded bridge is a type of dental bridge that uses the same structure as a traditional bridge but with a few key differences. This bridge offers a more conservative approach to restoring lost or missing teeth, as it does not require any alteration of nearby teeth.
The main difference between a Maryland-bonded bridge and a traditional bridge is that a Maryland-bonded bridge uses two metal bands that are bonded to the back of the remaining teeth. These bands are then connected to an artificial tooth, which replaces the missing tooth. The artificial tooth is typically made of a porcelain material, which looks and feels like a natural tooth.
Conclusion
It is necessary to weigh the pros and cons of the different dental bridges to make an informed decision. It is crucial to consider each option’s cost, time, and durability, as well as the potential risks and benefits. Taking the time to do research and make an informed decision can help ensure that you get the best results for your dental bridge.
If you are looking for a credible dentist that offers dental bridges in Manassas, you should consult Galleria Dental Arts. We can restore your smile with the use of any of the bridges. So, schedule a consultation now!
