What Are Dental Bridges and How Do They Work?

Introduction

Dental bridges are a common restorative dental solution used to replace one or more missing teeth. They not only restore the function of your smile but also prevent potential issues that can arise from gaps left by missing teeth, such as shifting of the surrounding teeth and bite problems. This guide explains what dental bridges are, how they work, and the benefits they provide.

1. What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a prosthetic device that fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It typically consists of artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are anchored by crowns placed on the adjacent teeth (called abutment teeth). The pontics bridge the gap, restoring the look and function of your teeth.

2. Types of Dental Bridges

There are several types of dental bridges, including traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, Maryland bridges, and implant-supported bridges. The type of bridge you need depends on the location of the missing tooth or teeth and the condition of your surrounding teeth.

3. How Dental Bridges Work

Dental bridges work by relying on the surrounding natural teeth or implants to secure the artificial tooth in place. The bridge distributes the pressure evenly while chewing and helps maintain proper alignment of your teeth. This restores both the function of your bite and the appearance of your smile.

4. Benefits of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges offer many benefits, such as improving the appearance of your smile, restoring the ability to chew and speak properly, preventing the remaining teeth from shifting, and maintaining the natural shape of your face. They also provide a durable, long-lasting solution for missing teeth.

Conclusion

Dental bridges are an effective and reliable way to replace missing teeth, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits. With different types available, your dentist can recommend the best option based on your dental needs. By filling in gaps and restoring your bite, dental bridges help maintain overall oral health while giving you back a confident smile.