Bridges, crowns, fillings, veneers. The different types of reparative dental procedures and what purpose they serve can sometimes get confusing. When is one appropriate and which one? Dental bridges fill the empty space made by one or more missing teeth, or a gap.
What Is A Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge usually consists of two crowns — one on both sides of the gap. They are fitted to the teeth on either side of the gap, called abutment teeth. In between these two crowns is a false tooth. Bridges can be made from several different materials, but are most often made from porcelain.
What Does A Bridge Do?
A bridge does just that: bridges teeth together when there is a gap or empty space. Primarily a dental bridge serves to get your smile looking its best. But besides that a dental bridge can restore many of the functions of a normal tooth:
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Chew, bite more effectively.
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Keep other teeth from moving.
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Speak properly.
Types Of Dental Bridges
Most commonly you’ll find there are three different types of dental bridges:
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Normal Bridge- A normal bridge is appropriate when there is a tooth on either side of the missing tooth, and consists of two crowns and a false tooth.
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Maryland Bridge- A Maryland bridge is made primarily of plastic adhered to a metal framework and includes gum detail. They are bonded to your teeth on either side.
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Cantilever Bridge- This type of bridge is used when there is a real tooth on only one side.
If you think that your smile could benefit from a dental bridge call Dr. D’Alfonso today and schedule an appointment!