Essential Insights Before Choosing Dental Bridges

Replacing missing teeth is crucial for maintaining your oral health and confidence. Multiple missing teeth can lead to difficulties with eating, speaking, and overall self-esteem. Dental bridges are a popular, budget-friendly solution that restore both function and appearance without extensive procedures. They imitate natural teeth effectively and are available in various types to suit different needs. Proper care and regular dental visits can extend the lifespan of your dental bridge, typically lasting 10-15 years. However, they're not suitable for everyone and do not prevent jawbone deterioration.

Types of Dental Bridges

Traditional bridges involve crowns cemented onto neighboring teeth, supporting the replacement tooth. This is the most common option used when natural teeth are present on both sides of the gap.

Maryland bridges feature a metal porcelain framework bonded to adjacent teeth, suitable when natural teeth are intact on both sides.

Cantilever bridges are supported by a single natural tooth, best when only one neighboring tooth is available for support.

Implant-supported bridges are anchored by implants instead of neighboring teeth, offering durability and stability. This option involves surgical procedures and is dependent on bone density.

Important Details About Dental Bridges

Expected Lifespan

Proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can significantly extend the life of your bridge. Typically, dental bridges last around 10-15 years, with implant-supported types offering the longest durability. Most bridges may need replacement after a decade.

Easier Eating and Speaking

Many worry that bridges might interfere with eating or speech, but they usually improve both. Initially, you may need to adapt your diet by avoiding hard foods. With time, you'll regain comfort and normalcy in your daily activities.

Suitability Criteria

Good oral hygiene

Overall health

Adequate bone support

Presence of at least one natural tooth adjacent to the gap

After evaluation, your dentist will advise on the most appropriate type and whether a dental bridge suits your condition and budget.

Not a Permanent Fix

While dental bridges restore function, they are not permanent. They work as a temporary solution and require replacement over time due to wear and tear. Proper maintenance and regular dental visits are key to prolonging their lifespan.

No Prevention of Bone Loss

Dental bridges do not prevent bone resorption since they are not anchored into the jawbone. Prolonged missing teeth can lead to bone and gum deterioration, which bridges cannot stop.