The Different Types Of Dental Bridges: Which One Is Right For You?

According to a study by the American Dental Association, the average adult has two to three missing teeth. Your teeth may be missing for many reasons, but the result is the same in all instances: you have to live with embarrassment. Thanks to scientific advancements in dentistry, dental bridges can replace lost teeth and help restore your confidence. You have different Types of dental bridges to choose from.

Which one is the right option for you? 

Only a dental professional can recommend the best option for each individual. However, the blog aims to provide you with an overview of the various types of dental bridges and help you determine the right one for you. 

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a false tooth that is fixed between the original teeth on both ends to fill the gap. However, before determining whether you need a dental bridge, you must first understand whether you need one. Here are some factors that decide whether or not you are the right candidate for a dental bridge:

• Missing one more permanent tooth.
• Strong, healthy bone structures that support the bridge.
• You have good oral health.
• You perform daily oral hygiene to maintain your dental bridges.  

The Types Of Dental Bridges: Which One Is Best Suited To Your Needs?

Dental bridges are an effective way to replace missing teeth and come in various types. However, only a knowledgeable dentist providing the highest quality dental bridges in Glendora, CA, can guide you on the right option. There are four major types of dental bridges

1. Traditional Dental Bridges 

Do you have healthy natural teeth on both sides of the gap (missing teeth)? You are suitable for a traditional dental bridge. 

The bridge consists of one or more pontic teeth held in place by abutment teeth. They are the natural teeth that support the fake teeth between them. 

The dentist removes a small amount of enamel from your adjacent teeth to create space for the dental crown. Once the dentist removes the enamel, it is irreversible. Thereafter, they place the dental bridge. 

2. Cantilever Bridge 

Among the major types of dental bridges, you have the cantilever bridges, which are attached to the abutment tooth from one end. 

If you have natural teeth on one side of the missing teeth, the dentist may recommend this procedure. The false teeth will stay firm and secure even when fixed to one end. 

Again, like traditional bridges, the dentist needs to prepare the adjacent tooth by removing some of its enamel. 

3. Maryland Bridge

Like traditional dental bridges, Maryland dental bridges employ two natural abutment teeth. 

However, their significant difference is that a Maryland dental bridge involves using a framework of metal or porcelain bonded to the back of the abutment teeth. In contrast to the traditional bridges, the false tooth is attached to the abutment teeth. 

Maryland dental bridges are an ideal option for replacing missing teeth at the front of your mouth. 

4. Implant-Supported Dental Bridge

With the implant-supported dental bridge, the dentist surgically places the missing tooth, holding it tightly in the gum and bone. This procedure is considered the strongest of all four because the implants are embedded in the jawbone. It is followed by placing the bridge. 

All the types of dental implants we mentioned are effective, as they are best suited for different conditions. However, our dentist thoroughly assesses your oral health and recommends the most suitable option for you.