Losing a tooth can affect more than just the appearance of your smile. It can change the way you chew, put additional pressure on the surrounding teeth, and over time contribute to changes in the jawbone and the alignment of nearby teeth. Dental bridges are one of the options available to replace a missing tooth or a small number of missing teeth, and they have been a reliable part of restorative dentistry for many years. This post explains what dental bridges are, how they work, when they are typically recommended, and how they compare to other tooth replacement options.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, held in place by crowns that are cemented onto the natural teeth on either side of the gap. These supporting teeth are called abutment teeth.
Because a bridge is cemented into place, it is not removable like a denture. It functions and feels more like a natural tooth during eating and speaking, and it does not need to be taken out for cleaning.
What Types of Dental Bridges Are There?
There are several types of dental bridges, and the most appropriate option depends on the location of the missing tooth, the health of the surrounding teeth, and the patient’s overall oral health.
Traditional bridges are the most common type. They use crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap to anchor the artificial tooth or teeth in between. This requires the abutment teeth to be prepared by removing some enamel to accommodate the crowns.
Cantilever bridges are used when there is only one natural tooth adjacent to the gap rather than teeth on both sides. These are less commonly used and are generally not recommended for areas of the mouth that experience heavy chewing forces.
Maryland bridges use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the backs of the adjacent teeth rather than full crowns. This option is more conservative because it requires less alteration of the supporting teeth, but it may not be as durable in all situations.
Implant-supported bridges are anchored by dental implants rather than natural teeth. This option does not require the adjacent teeth to be altered and is often considered when multiple consecutive teeth are missing or when the neighboring teeth are healthy and preserving them is a priority.
When Are Dental Bridges Recommended?
A dental bridge may be recommended in a number of situations, including:
- When one or more teeth are missing and the adjacent natural teeth are healthy enough to support a bridge
- When a patient is not a candidate for dental implants due to insufficient bone density, health factors, or personal preference
- When the gap left by a missing tooth is affecting chewing, speech, or the alignment of surrounding teeth
- When a more immediate tooth replacement option is preferred, as bridges generally involve a shorter treatment timeline than implants
The decision between a bridge and other tooth replacement options depends on several factors that are best evaluated during a dental consultation.
How Do Dental Bridges Compare to Dental Implants?
Dental bridges and dental implants are both effective tooth replacement options, but they work differently and suit different situations.
A dental implant replaces the tooth root as well as the visible crown, which helps preserve the jawbone in the area of the missing tooth. Implants do not require alteration of the adjacent teeth and are considered a long-term standalone restoration. However, they involve a surgical procedure and require adequate bone volume for placement.
A dental bridge replaces the visible portion of the missing tooth without a surgical component. It can be a good option when implant placement is not suitable or when a patient prefers to avoid surgery. The trade-off is that the adjacent teeth need to be prepared to support the bridge, and the underlying jawbone in the area of the missing tooth is not preserved the way it would be with an implant.
Neither option is universally better. The right choice depends on the patient’s oral health, bone density, budget, and personal preferences, and a thorough dental evaluation is the best starting point for making that decision.
What Does Getting a Dental Bridge Involve?
The process of getting a traditional dental bridge typically takes place over two or more appointments.
At the first appointment, the abutment teeth are prepared by reshaping them to accommodate the crowns that will anchor the bridge. Impressions or digital scans are taken and sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge is custom-fabricated. A temporary bridge is usually placed to protect the prepared teeth while the permanent restoration is being made.
At the second appointment, the temporary bridge is removed and the permanent bridge is checked for fit, bite, and appearance before being cemented into place. Follow-up adjustments may occasionally be needed to ensure a comfortable bite.
How Do You Care for a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge requires some additional attention compared to natural teeth, particularly in the area beneath the pontic where the artificial tooth sits above the gum. Food and bacteria can accumulate in this area, so cleaning under the bridge is an important part of daily oral hygiene.
Floss threaders or interdental brushes can help clean beneath the bridge effectively. Water flossers are another option that many patients find convenient for this purpose. Regular dental cleanings and exams allow your dental provider to monitor the condition of the bridge and the health of the supporting teeth and surrounding gum tissue.
FAQ
How long does a dental bridge last?
With proper care and regular dental visits, a dental bridge can last many years. The lifespan of a bridge depends on a number of factors including the health of the supporting teeth, oral hygiene habits, and bite forces. Your dentist can give you a better sense of what to expect based on your specific situation.
Is getting a dental bridge painful?
The preparation of the abutment teeth is done under local anesthetic, so the procedure itself should not be painful. Some sensitivity or mild discomfort in the treated area is common in the days following the appointment and typically resolves on its own.
Can a dental bridge be done in one day?
Traditional dental bridges generally require at least two appointments because the bridge is custom-fabricated in a dental laboratory between visits. Some dental practices with in-office milling technology may be able to complete restorations in fewer visits, but this varies by clinic and case complexity.
What happens to the bone under a dental bridge?
Because a traditional bridge does not replace the tooth root, the jawbone in the area of the missing tooth may gradually change over time. This is one of the reasons dental implants are sometimes preferred for long-term bone preservation. Your dentist can discuss how this may apply to your specific situation.
Are dental bridges covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans include some coverage for restorative treatments including dental bridges, though the amount covered varies by plan. It is worth checking with your insurance provider to understand your coverage before your consultation.
If you have a missing tooth and want to understand your replacement options, Florence Dentistry can help evaluate what may be the right fit for your situation. Contact our downtown Ottawa dental clinic to book an appointment.
