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Are you wondering if a dental bridge is right for you? If you happen to have one or more missing teeth a dental bridge is one option to get your smile back. However, dental bridges are not a permanent solution for missing teeth. In time, dental bridge problems will arise and cause discomfort. To help you decide, you must first know what a dental bridge is and how it works.

 

What Is A Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge usually consists of three false teeth. Adjacent teeth need to be trimmed so that the bridge covers them. The middle false tooth will replace the missing spot.

Generally, there are three types of dental bridges. You can classify each kind of dental bridge by the placement of its anchors.

  • Traditional Dental Bridge. This type of dental bridge attaches to the healthy teeth on either side of the missing teeth. The dentist may perform minor shaving on the natural teeth to allow crown placement for an added security.benefits of dental bridge
  • Maryland Dental Bridge. If you want to keep your natural teeth intact, a Maryland bridge is a good option. It involves the placement of a metal structure at the back of the teeth. This structure helps in supporting the bridge.
  • Implant-supported Dental Bridge. If you have more than one missing teeth, an implant-supported bridge is the best option. During this treatment, your dentist will attach dental implants to either side of the missing teeth. The dental implants will serve as support where your dentist will place the dental bridge for the remaining gaps.

 

Pros and Cons of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are the most common solution for missing teeth restorations. However, like most dental procedures, dental bridges have pros and cons.

 

Pros of Bridges

Here are the most significant benefits that you can get when choosing tooth bridges over other choices.

  • Affordability

Many people choose dental bridges because they cost a lot less than dental implants. A dental bridge procedure does not involve a surgical process that would not require much precision.

  • Non-invasive

There is no bone grafting necessary during a dental bridge treatment. When your tooth has been missing for a significant period, there is a high chance that your jaw bone will become weaker. Dental implants require a strong jaw bone before the placement of an artificial tooth. Luckily, it is not necessary for dental bridges.

  • More stable

In comparison to dentures, dental bridges provide a more advantageous option. Most dentists will recommend a bridge, especially if the patient has enough healthy teeth to place the anchors. Dental bridges offer a semi-permanent solution and are more practical than dentures that only use temporary sealants.

 

Cons of Bridges

On the other side, there are also disadvantages to dental bridges that you must take note of. These include the following:

  • Risking natural tooth

Your dentist will shave down and cap the healthy teeth where your dental bridge will attach during a traditional dental bridge treatment. This technique results in a loss of healthy tooth enamel, adding risk for permanent tooth damage.

  • Bone loss

Dental bridges will sit above the gum line but would not have any roots, unlike dental implants. As it does not require the reconstruction of the jaw bone, dental bridges cannot stop bone loss from occurring.

  • Last up to 10 Years

Dental bridges are only semi-permanent, which means that you should not expect them to last a lifetime. Moreover, improper oral hygiene can affect dental bridges, eventually inflicting damage on their anchor teeth.

 

Other Options for Missing Tooth

 

Dental Implants

Dental implants provide a permanent solution if you want to replace your missing teeth. Tooth implant surgery involves the direct placement of false teeth by creating an anchor into your tooth’s root. Your dentist will add metal screws into your jawbones where he or she will put the false tooth into place.

 

Removable Partial Dentures

replacement teeth optionsIf you want to have a more straightforward option to replace your teeth, perhaps you would like to have a partial denture. Removable partial dentures involve creating a synthetic model that contains one or more prosthetic teeth following the placement of your missing teeth. It is often used with semi-permanent glue or clasps to help ensure that it will help the appropriate area.

 

Flipper

A flipper is also known as a removable retainer. It looks like a temporary partial denture, only that it flips in and out of its position. Flippers are not dependent on any of their surrounding teeth and do not have any metal clasps.

 

Still not sure which treatment is fit to your liking? It might be helpful to talk to a professional about your concerns.

You can call us today at (02) 9159 3783 to schedule your consultation.

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