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Dental Bridge Procedures

When you are missing one or more teeth, it can be unsightly if the gaps are in a prominent spot. Even if they're not, missing teeth can make it more difficult to chew, and your remaining teeth can shift out of their proper positions. Fortunately, dental bridges offer an effective way to fill in the gaps and replace missing teeth. There are three main dental bridge procedures. Depending on which is used, the bridge can look very natural. All types of bridges maintain proper tooth spacing and allow you to eat more comfortably.

  1. Maryland Bridges

    • Maryland bridges use plastic teeth that are bonded to the surrounding teeth via metal framework. This procedure, also known as a resin-bonded bridge, is typically the least expensive type of bridge. The teeth on either side of the bridge are prepared before the framework is attached. The framework is visible, so this is the least cosmetically appealing bridge procedure. However, it is not as invasive to surrounding teeth as other procedures. At the initial visit, the dentist will make an impression so the bridge can be prepared. The patient returns to complete the procedure by having the bridge bonded into place. Maryland bridges are typically only used on teeth in the front of the mouth that are not exposed to strong biting force. If the procedure succeeds, the bridge can last from five to 10 years.

    Traditional Bridges

    • Traditional bridges are the most commonly used dental bridge procedure. They can be used when there is a tooth in good condition on either side of the gap. The procedure involves preparing those teeth to be capped. Impressions are taken, and a temporary bridge is put in place while the permanent bridge is created. When the patient returns, the dentist cements the new bridge in place. There will be a fake tooth in the gap between the caps. Traditional bridges are made of porcelain that is fused to metal. They are usually cosmetically appealing, although the metal may be visible at the base. Traditional bridges can last up to 15 years.

    Cantilever Bridges

    • Cantilever bridges must be used when there is only one tooth next to the missing tooth. It can also be the procedure of choice for areas in the mouth that are not under much stress. This approach often is used for front teeth, because these bridges don't have metal clasps, making them more cosmetically attractive. The cantilever bridge is attached to a cap on the tooth adjoining the gap. It can last for up to 10 years before it needs to be replaced.

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