How to Choose the Right Type of Dental Bridges for You

Dental bridges are a common and effective way to replace missing teeth. But with so many different types of dental bridges available, how do you know which one is right for you?

Traditional Bridges

A dental bridge is essentially a false tooth, known as a pontic, which is typically fused between two dental crowns to fill in the space. The two dental crowns holding it in place are attached to existing teeth and are called abutment teeth. Dental bridges are typically supported by natural teeth or implants, and they are used to replace missing teeth.

A traditional dental bridge is made of porcelain or ceramic fused with metal. The metal framework provides strength and support for the pontic, and the porcelain or ceramic material matches the color of your natural teeth. Traditional dental bridges can last many years, but they may eventually need to be replaced.

Maryland Bridges

One of the most popular types of dental bridges is the Maryland dental bridge. This type of bridge is made from two dental crowns that are placed on the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth (or pontic) in between. Maryland bridges are usually made from porcelain or ceramic, which makes them very strong and durable. They are also less likely to irritate the gums than other bridges.

One of the main benefits of Maryland bridges is that they are relatively easy to install. However, they are not as strong as some of the other dental bridge options, and they can sometimes be visible when you smile or talk.

Cantilever Bridges

Cantilever bridges are one of the most popular types of dental bridges. They are made up of two crowns placed on the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth or teeth in between. The cantilever bridge is held in place by the two anchoring teeth.

Cantilever bridges are most commonly used when only one or two teeth are missing in a row. They are also a good option when there are healthy teeth on only one side of the gap. Cantilever bridges can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or metal.

The main advantage of cantilever bridges is that they require less preparation of the anchoring teeth than traditional bridges. In addition, cantilever bridges tend to be less expensive than traditional bridges. The downside of cantilever bridges is that they put more stress on the anchoring teeth than traditional bridges and are not as strong. They also can be more challenging to clean than traditional bridges.

Composite Bridges

Composite bridges are made from a combination of materials, including porcelain, metal, and plastic. They are designed to look like natural teeth and can be used to replace one or more missing teeth.

One of the main benefits of composite bridges is that they can be customized to match your natural teeth’s color. This means they can be virtually indistinguishable from your real teeth and provide a natural-looking result.

Another benefit of composite bridges is that they are less expensive than other types, such as porcelain bridges. They are also less likely to chip or break than porcelain bridges, making them an excellent choice for people with a history of dental problems.

One of the main drawbacks of composite bridges is that they are not as strong as other types of bridges. This means that they may not be suitable for people who have a lot of bite force or grind their teeth at night.

Another drawback of composite bridges is that they can be more difficult to keep clean than other types of bridges. This is because the materials used to make composite bridges are more porous and can trap bacteria and food particles.

Final Thoughts

There are many different types of dental bridges available, and the right type for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re missing some teeth, a dental bridge can help restore your smile and improve your oral health. Talk to your dentist to discuss which dental bridge option would be best for you.

Get the right dental bridges for your teeth from Watertown Dentistry. We are a dentist in Watertown that provides preventive dentistry, periodontal care, and endodontics. At Watertown Dentistry, we will develop a treatment plan that best fits all your dental needs. Book an appointment now!