Types And Benefits Of Dental Bridge

When faced with a lack of dental elements in the mouth, the orthodontist may suggest mounting a dental bridge. This is an alternative that allows the user to regain the look and function that he lost with his teeth. But what does it consist of? What are the benefits and disadvantages of dental bridge?

There are many questions about dental bridges. In this article, we will explain what dental bridges are and what types are available and the main benefits. Read more!

What is a dental bridge?

Dental bridge is a type of fixed prosthesis that we use to replace one or more missing dental elements. It covers the area where the teeth with artificial crowns that adhere to the remaining healthy teeth are missing.

The dental bridge is attached to the neighboring dental pieces. They must be carved in advance. This means that the teeth must be polished so that the structure can be properly cemented. Therefore, the patient cannot remove the prosthesis because it is fixed in the mouth.

The patient is able to regain the functions he lost with one or more teeth. These include aesthetics, obstruction, ability to chew, face shape, speech and pronunciation.

In general, dental bridges can be made of the following materials:

How are dental bridges made?

What types of dental bridges are there?

The dental bridge in the bracket is similar to the traditional one, but has only one support pillar. The procedure requires only a natural tooth that adjoins the space generated by the missing dental elements.

The orthodontist will need to turn the chosen tooth into a pillar. Then, it will cement the crown together with the pillar, which will later allow the artificial tooth / teeth to occupy the empty space. With a single point of support, the resistance is lower.

Sometimes, the teeth can break or come off completely due to the lever that is formed when the individual chews.

These bridges use two natural dental elements, such as pillars, one on each side of the empty space. The difference is that they do not use crowns over the pillars, but side wings, made of metal or porcelain, which adhere to the posterior surface of the neighboring teeth.

To do this, it is essential to have a natural element on both sides of the space created by the missing dental pieces. In this case, the orthodontist will not have to grind his teeth as much, being the most conservative option.

This type of bridge is intended for areas that are not subjected to a high occlusal load, because they cannot withstand the impact.

As their name suggests, these bridges use implants instead of crowns. The patient must undergo surgery. In general, there will be two separate operations: one for fixing the implants and another for fixing the bridge. This process can take several months to complete.

The number and location of implants will vary depending on the case. For example, the dentist may place the implant in the center of the space or use one for each missing element or one at each end of the gap.

This type of dental bridge is the most stable and can best withstand pressure. It is also the most comfortable and the only one that prevents bone resorption in the empty space.

The benefits of dental bridge

Now that we have determined what this device looks like, we will discuss the benefits of dental bridge.

Mounting a dental bridge has aesthetic benefits as well as health benefits.

Once the process is complete, the person can return to normal eating and chewing. Moreover, its pronunciation will improve, as it will no longer have spaces that can cause involuntary or distorted sounds.

Aesthetically, it can help increase self-confidence and self-esteem; prevents teasing and improves physical appearance by maintaining the shape of the face. By filling the empty space of the lost teeth, the other teeth are less likely to move and change position.

The cost of the dental bridge is one of the most important advantages. They are durable and, compared to implants, much more economical.

Disadvantages of dental bridges

We have established the benefits of the dental bridge. Now, we will also talk about disadvantages.

Talk to your orthodontist for more information

Dental bridges can be a good option to replace missing teeth. Before choosing this method, it is important to consult an orthodontist.

The orthodontist will help you solve your doubts about materials, types, models and procedures. It will also assess possible inconveniences. Keep that in mind!