The two (or more) supporting teeth are referred to as abutment teeth, and the fabricated teeth are called pontics. The abutment teeth (or anchoring teeth) may be natural teeth or implants. Pontics are made in a dental lab using alloys, gold, porcelain, or any combination of these materials.
The Benefits of Dental Bridges
The importance of restoring missing teeth goes beyond the obvious aesthetics. Any gap between teeth can cause the surrounding teeth to move and shift – leading to cavities and gum disease. Bridges also restore the ability to chew and speak properly, as well as distribute the forces of your bite more evenly. A dental bridge will also help to maintain the natural shape of your face.
Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional Bridges
Traditional bridges are the most common type of dental bridge and are made of either ceramics or porcelain fused to metal. The supporting teeth or implants to either side of the pontic will be prepared on all surfaces to allow for crowns to be constructed. These crowns will support the bridgework.
Maryland Bonded Bridges
Another type of bridge is called the Maryland bonded bridge (also referred to as a Maryland bridge or a resin-bonded bridge). Using a metal or porcelain framework for support, these are made from porcelain fused to metal, porcelain alone, or plastic. This type of bridge has porcelain or metal “wings” – often on just one side of the bridge – bonded to your existing teeth.
Cantilever Bridges
Cantilever bridges are a third type of bridge which are seldom used. They cannot withstand too much force – as they are supported on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. They are not recommended for use in the back of the mouth where they can cause extra force to be placed on other teeth – damaging them.
What Can I Expect When Getting a Dental Bridge?
The abutment, or supporting teeth, will be prepared during the first visit to our dentist in Woodland Hills, CA if you are receiving a dental bridge. They will be contoured by removing a portion of enamel which will allow room for the crowns (which will be part of the bridge) to be placed over these teeth.
Next, a set of impressions will be made and sent to a dental lab where they will be used to create your dental bridge. This will usually take a week or longer. In the meantime, you will wear a temporary bridge made by your dentist to protect your exposed gums and teeth while the permanent bridge is being fabricated.
During your second visit, the temporary bridge will be removed, and the new permanent bridge will be checked for fit – and adjusted, as necessary. It’s extremely important to achieve a proper fit, and multiple visits may be necessary to adjust the position of the metal framework as well as align the bite. Every individual bridge is different, and your dentist in Woodland Hills, CA may temporarily cement your fixed bridge in place for a couple of weeks prior to permanently cementing it in place – just to make sure it fits properly.
Visit Our Dentist in Woodland Hills, CA
If you are suffering with missing teeth, reach out to our professional staff to discuss whether a dental bridge might be the right solution for you. Contact us with your questions today.
