Bridges

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is exactly what it sounds like – a bridge between the gaps of your teeth. It is what you need to make your smile whole and complete once again. Bridges come in many different materials and finishes. Porcelain and ceramic bridges are considered the best. While they come at a higher cost than metal ones they can be made to resemble completely natural teeth. A cost-effective solution is a hybrid bridge made from ceramic or porcelain fused to a metal base.

Generally speaking, if you are looking to get the most natural appearance possible, we recommend that you go with a porcelain bridge. At Innova Dental we will walk you through all the available options and work out a solution that suits your preferences and budget.

Types of Dental Bridges

There are two types of dental bridges: fixed or bonded. In both cases, only the crown of the tooth is being replaced. The first is a particularly strong and durable solution and can be used to replace one or two adjacent teeth. You will be required to take extra care when cleaning the area surrounding the bridge. Should you decide to replace the bridge with an implant, you should also note that the adjacent teeth will require crowns.

In cases where you only need to replace a single tooth, a bonded bridge might be your best option. Its distinct advantage over a fixed bridge is that it preserves the health of adjacent teeth. However, you should be aware that this option is not as strong or durable as a fixed bridge.

Do You Really Need a Dental Bridge?

Flooded by all this information, you are probably beginning to wonder if getting a dental bridge is even worth it. Should I just live with a gap in my mouth? Well, there are some very good reasons for you to consider a dental bridge option seriously:

  • A missing tooth makes eating harder.
  • Surrounding teeth will suffer wear and tear over time.
  • The risk of gum disease increases significantly.
  • Your speech may be affected.

How Long Do They Last?

A dental bridge can last you up to 15 years – assuming good oral hygiene and proper dental care. Our dentists can demonstrate how to properly take care of your teeth but you should commit to a daily mouth care schedule yourself. In addition, you should still undergo regular dental check-ups – twice per year is our recommendation – in order to diagnose potential problems early. Making sure you have a balanced diet, and getting proper nutrition is paramount to staying healthy and extending the longevity of your bridge.

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