One, two, or three missing teeth in a row can lead to oral, overall, and mental health issues, such as dental decay, gum disease, further tooth loss, diabetes, heart disease, premature birth, and low self-esteem. Thankfully, for people with missing teeth, these health issues don’t have to become part of their story. Dentists offer several solutions for missing teeth—one of the most popular being a dental bridge.
Wondering if a dental bridge is right for you? Continue reading to learn all about this incredible restorative treatment and its advantages and disadvantages.
Types of Dental Bridges
The goal of every dental bridge is to effectively replace one to three missing teeth in a row. The four types of dental bridges include:
- Traditional dental bridge: A traditional bridge consists of two dental crowns on either side of prosthetic teeth. This is the most common type of dental bridge because it provides the most support and stability for patients since there are two crowns that attach to two healthy teeth on either side of the missing ones.
- Cantilever dental bridge: The only difference between a cantilever and a traditional bridge is that there is only one dental crown to hold the bridge in place. This dental bridge may be recommended when a neighboring tooth already has a dental crown, there is only one neighboring tooth, or for aesthetic reasons.
- Maryland bridge: Instead of crowns, a Maryland bridge has wings that attach to the backside of the neighboring teeth. While this may seem appealing, the wings are much weaker than dental crowns, making them a less popular option. In fact, most dentists (like Dr. Glud) don’t even offer Maryland bridges.
- Implant-supported dental bridge: Dental implants are a newer restorative option for patients. Rather than connecting the bridge to healthy teeth, the crowns are attached to dental implants, which are inserted into the jawbone. This provides significant benefits, such as the promotion of jawbone regrowth, stability, and no need to alter healthy teeth.
The Pros and Cons
When compared to a denture and dental implants, a traditional dental bridge offers significant advantages, such as:
- A traditional dental bridge is permanent, unlike a denture.
- Bridges are more affordable than dental implants.
- Placing a dental bridge is a quick and simple process.
- Bridges won’t slip and slide around the mouth.
Disadvantages of dental bridges include:
- A traditional dental bridge doesn’t stimulate the jawbone, allowing it to deteriorate.
- Ill-fitted dental bridges put patients at risk for decay and disease.
- Dentures are typically more affordable than dental bridges.
- Dentists must remove enamel from the patient’s healthy neighboring teeth to secure the bridge.
Candidacy for a Dental Bridge
Patients who desire a dental bridge must have good oral health (free of decay and disease), have one to three consecutive missing teeth, one or two healthy teeth on either side of the missing ones, and fairly good overall health.
If the patient does not have good oral health, the dentist will work on resolving those issues before moving forward with the dental bridge.
Dental Bridge Dentist in Lombard
Ready to replace your missing teeth? Our Lombard dentist, Dr. Julie Glud, is prepared to help! During your appointment, Dr. Glud will examine your smile, review your dental history, and talk with you about your smile goals. Contact our office today at (630) 629-5700 to schedule your initial consultation.
