Dental bridges are an excellent and durable tooth replacement option. By using two supporting teeth, we can bridge the gap left by a missing tooth with a beautiful, natural-looking crown. At Chagrin Highlands Dental Group, we proudly offer several dental bridge options. Together, we can restore your smile with a beautifully-designed bridge!
Dental Bridges
What Are Dental Bridges?
Losing a tooth is not only an aesthetic issue but a health issue as well. Without a replacement, your surrounding teeth could collapse into the gap. Over time, this could alter your ability to speak, bite, and chew normally. It may also lead to TMJ issues such as chronic headaches, jaw aches, etc.
A traditional bridge is made from three crowns. First, we place two crowns over the natural teeth on either side of the gap. These support teeth are called abutments. The abutments support a third crown – the replacement tooth – which is firmly held in the middle. Dental bridges functionally and cosmetically replace missing teeth. With proper care, your dental bridge can last a lifetime.
What Are the Differences Between Traditional and Implant Bridges?
Traditional bridges use abutment teeth on either side of the gap to support a replacement crown. To do this, we will shape and prepare your supporting teeth. Once they are ready, the abutment crowns will be cemented into place. This is the most common option for dental bridges.
Alternately, Dr. Desatnik can place dental implants in the mouth to support the bridge. Implants are surgically attached to the jawbone. They are comfortable and secure. By using implants, we will not have to alter any of your natural teeth. The bridge will use implant posts for support instead of abutments. Implant bridges are an ideal option for patients who need a dental bridge to replace several teeth in a row.
Are There Any Other Options?
Yes! There are several bridge options to choose from including cantilever bridges and Maryland bridges.
In comparison to traditional bridges, cantilever bridges only use one abutment tooth to support the replacement crown. Cantilever bridges are economical and do not require as many natural teeth to be altered. Dr. Desatnik generally recommends this option when a tooth is missing in the front of the mouth.
Maryland bridges use metal wings, instead of crowns, to hold a replacement tooth in place. Maryland bridges are not as sturdy as traditional ones and are generally used as a temporary fix. However, these bridges are cheaper than traditional ones and do not require the abutment teeth to be altered so drastically. Dr. Desatnik will be happy to discuss all of your treatment options to find a solution for your smile!
If you would like to learn more about dental bridges, please call us at 216-464-9800. We would be happy to answer any of your questions or schedule a consultation.
Become a patient today! Call us at (216) 464-9800 or schedule an appointment online.