Is A Dental Bridge The Optimal Dental Restoration Solution For You?

What Is The Dental Bridge?

A Dental Bridge is a fixed dental restoration (a fixed dental prosthesis) used to replace one or more missing teeth by joining an artificial tooth definitively to adjacent teeth or dental implants. (Source link)

A Dental Bridge consists of two main components: Abutment (which can be a natural tooth or a dental implant) and Pontic. These components can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials, and they are attached to the surrounding teeth for support. A Dental Bridge helps restore chewing function, improve aesthetics, and prevent the shifting of remaining teeth in the mouth.

So, what types of Dental Bridges are there? What is the detailed process for placing a Dental Bridge? What are the advantages and disadvantages of a Dental Bridge?  Dental Bridge and Implant: which is better? And what types of Dental Bridges are available at VTA? Let’s explore these questions in this article.

Types Of Dental Bridges

Based on the patient’s specific dental condition and oral health, the dentist will use different types of dental bridges designed to meet various needs. The main types of dental bridges include:

1. Traditional Dental Bridge

A Traditional Dental Bridge is the most commonly used type to replace missing teeth. It consists of crowns (caps) on both ends, attached to one or more pontics (artificial teeth) in the middle. The crowns are placed over healthy neighboring teeth prepared by removing part of the enamel, and the pontic fills the gap in between.

While traditional bridges are the most popular choice and effectively restore the function and appearance of one or more missing teeth, they also have some drawbacks. The removal of healthy enamel structure can weaken the adjacent teeth over time, which is why they always need to be protected with a crown.

Traditional Dental Bridge

2. Cantilever Bridge

A cantilever bridge is similar in structure to a traditional bridge but differs in its support system. While a traditional bridge is anchored on both sides with crowns, a cantilever bridge is supported on only one side. This makes it less invasive, easier to install, and ideal for cases where there is only one healthy tooth next to the gap that can provide support. However, because the structure is supported on just one side, it is less balanced and not as stable as a traditional bridge, which is why it is typically chosen for front teeth rather than back teeth.

Cantilever Bridge

3. Maryland Bridge

Also known as a resin-bonded bridge or Maryland bridge, this is a conservative solution for replacing missing teeth, especially in the front of the mouth. A Maryland bridge consists of a metal or ceramic frame with the artificial tooth attached to the back of the adjacent teeth using resin to secure the bridge in place.

Unlike traditional bridges, a Maryland bridge does not require the removal of enamel from the neighboring teeth. This helps preserve the integrity of those teeth, making the Maryland bridge a less invasive option. However, it may not be as strong or stable as a traditional bridge and is more suitable for patients who want to preserve the natural structure of their teeth.

Maryland Bridge

4. Implant-supported Bridge

An Implant-Supported Bridge (Dental Implant Bridge) is similar to a traditional dental bridge, but it is anchored on dental implants rather than natural teeth. Dental implants are small, threaded titanium posts that replace missing tooth roots and are fixed into the jawbone, where they integrate with the bone. This process takes an average of three to six months but may take longer depending on the patient’s condition.

Implant-supported bridges offer an extremely stable and durable option for replacing lost teeth, making them an ideal choice for restoring multiple consecutive missing teeth, especially in areas with multiple missing teeth that require maximum aesthetics, such as the anterior teeth, an Implant Bridge For The Front Teeth will be the optimal choice. They help stimulate the bone to keep it healthy and intact. Although Implant-supported Bridges have a higher initial cost due to the surgical implantation procedure, they provide long-lasting and reliable results.

Implant-supported Bridge

Dental bridge procedure

Depending on the type of dental bridge you choose, the procedure will involve different specific steps:

1. Traditional Dental Bridge And Cantilever Bridge Procedure

Step 1: Examination and consultation.

The dentist performs a comprehensive oral exam and discusses the available restorative options with the patient. Local anesthesia is then administered to ensure the patient’s comfort throughout the dental bridge procedure.

Step 2: Tooth preparation.

The abutment teeth are reshaped by removing some enamel and dentin to create space for the crowns that will support the bridge’s prosthetic tooth. For a Traditional Dental Bridge, two adjacent abutment teeth on either side of the gap are prepared, while for a Cantilever Bridge, only one adjacent abutment tooth is reshaped.

Step 3: Impression.

After the abutment teeth are prepared, the dentist will take an impression of the patient’s teeth. This impression acts as an accurate mold for creating a custom dental bridge. The impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians fabricate the bridge to ensure a comfortable fit and natural appearance.

While waiting for the permanent bridge to be fabricated, the dentist will place a temporary bridge to protect the exposed abutment teeth and maintain the aesthetic appearance of the smile.

Step 4: Bridge placement.

After the Traditional Bridge or Cantilever Bridge is fabricated, the dentist will remove the temporary bridge (if present), and then permanently bond the dental bridge to the abutment teeth. The dentist will perform final adjustments to ensure proper fit and occlusion, ensuring that the patient feels natural and comfortable.

2. Maryland Bridge Procedure

Step 1: Examination and consultation.

The dentist will examine and assess your oral health, including evaluating the abutment teeth (the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth area) to ensure they are healthy and strong enough to bear the load. This step is crucial to determine if you are a suitable candidate for a Maryland bridge.

Step 2: Tooth preparation.

Once the patient is deemed suitable for a Maryland bridge, the dentist will lightly etch the back surfaces of the teeth on either side of the gap to create space for the Maryland bridge to be securely bonded.

Step 3: Take impressions and place a temporary bridge (if needed).

The dentist will take an impression of the patient’s teeth and send it to the dental laboratory to fabricate the Maryland bridge. While the permanent bridge is being made, a temporary bridge may be placed to protect the teeth and gums.

Step 4: Bridge placement.

Once the custom bridge is ready, the patient will return to the dentist. The temporary bridge is removed, and the new bridge is checked for fit, comfort, and appearance. The dentist may make some adjustments to ensure proper fit.

3. Implant-Support Bridge Procedure

Step 1: Examination and consultation.

The patient will undergo a comprehensive oral examination, including a check of gum health and jawbone condition to ensure they are suitable for implant placement. The dentist may request an X-ray or CT scan to assess bone density and the location of the implant. Also, provide consultation for patients regarding the implant process, types of implants, costs, and treatment duration.

Step 2: Implant placement.

The dentist will administer local anesthesia and perform the surgical procedure to place the implant post into the jawbone. After surgery, the implant will need to heal and integrate with the bone (a process known as osseointegration). This process typically takes between three to six months, but it may take longer depending on the individual’s condition. During this period, the patient may use a temporary prosthesis.

Step 3: Abutment placement.

Once the implant has integrated with the jawbone, the dentist will reopen the surgical site (if necessary) and attach a component called an abutment to the implant. The abutment serves as a connector between the implant and the dental bridge, helping secure the bridge firmly onto the implant.

Step 4: Impression.

Once the abutment is securely in place, the dentist will take an impression of the patient’s mouth to create an accurate model for the Dental Bridge. This mold will be sent to the laboratory to fabricate a bridge that fits the patient’s jaw size and shape.

Step 5: Bridge placement.

Once the Dental Bridge is fully fabricated, the dentist will place the bridge onto the abutment and check for proper fit. The bridge will be securely attached to the abutment using dental adhesive. The dentist will make adjustments to ensure proper occlusion and patient comfort. After the bridge is placed, the patient will receive instructions on oral care, especially regarding cleaning around the implant area.

Compare the Pros and cons Of Dental Bridges And Dental Implants

Dental Bridge

The Pros Of Dental Bridge

• Restores chewing function: The loss of permanent teeth can make it difficult to eat or speak normally. A Dental Bridge helps restore chewing function, allowing users to eat normally without worrying about missing teeth.
• Enhances aesthetics: Tooth loss not only makes chewing difficult but also affects the aesthetics of your smile, reducing confidence in social interactions. Dental Bridges are often made from porcelain, a material that can be shaped and colored to resemble natural teeth as closely as possible. They help restore the aesthetic appearance of your teeth, allowing patients to smile and speak with greater confidence.

• Short treatment time: A Dental Bridge usually requires only two appointments scheduled relatively close together, often within 1-2 weeks, to complete the process. This is much faster than the implant method, which requires a healing period of 3-6 months around the implant site.
• Helps stabilize surrounding teeth: When a tooth is lost, the adjacent teeth tend to shift into that space, causing jaw misalignment. Using a dental bridge to fill that gap, prevents teeth from moving out of alignment, helping to keep them stable in their proper position.
• Affordable cost: Dental Bridges are generally more affordable than implants and are also suitable for patients with insufficient bone density for implants.

The Cons Of Dental Bridge

• Impact on adjacent teeth: To place a traditional dental bridge, the adjacent teeth on both sides of the gap must be reduced in size. This can weaken these teeth and make them more susceptible to cavities and further damage in the future.
• Jawbone resorption: Over time, the site of the lost tooth no longer receives stimulation, leading to jawbone resorption. This can result in several long-term negative consequences, such as facial collapse or asymmetry, and instability of dentures.
• Shorter Lifespan: Dental Bridges generally have a shorter lifespan than implants, averaging about 5-15 years, whereas implants, with proper care, can last a lifetime.
• Difficulties in cleaning and adjustment: Cleaning a Dental Bridge can be more challenging, increasing the risk of cavities or gum disease in the supporting teeth. Additionally, if the bridge needs adjustment or replacement, the process can be more complex compared to Implants.

Dental Implant

The Pros Of Dental Implant

• Durability: With proper care and maintenance, Dental Implants can last a lifetime, making them a more permanent solution compared to Dental Bridges, which may need replacement after a certain number of years.
• Preservation of Bone Structure: Implant-supported grafts help stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss in the area of the missing tooth and averting long-term consequences such as facial collapse or asymmetry and unstable teeth.
• No Impact on Adjacent Teeth: Dental Implants stand alone and do not rely on neighboring teeth for support. In contrast, Dental Bridges require the adjacent teeth to be filed down to accommodate the bridge, potentially compromising their structural integrity.
• Natural Look and Feel: Dental Implants are designed to mimic the root structure of natural teeth, providing a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like your natural teeth.
• Improved Oral Hygiene: Since dental implants function like natural teeth, they do not face the same hygiene challenges as bridges. This makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

The Cons Of Dental Implant

• Higher Initial Cost: Although Dental Implants may be more cost-effective in the long run due to their durability, the initial investment is something to consider. They are typically more expensive than bridges due to the need for multiple procedures and specialized materials during the implant placement process.
• Longer Treatment Time: Dental Implant process often takes longer, including the waiting time for healing and integration with the bone, which can take anywhere from a few months to a year. In contrast, a dental bridge can usually be completed in just a few appointments.

• Surgical Procedure Required and Potential for Complications: Dental implants involve a surgical procedure to place the titanium post into the jawbone. This can be a deterrent for some individuals, especially those who are apprehensive about surgeries. and As with any surgical procedure, there’s a risk of complications such as infection, nerve damage, or sinus problems (if the implant is placed in the upper jaw)
• Not Suitable for Everyone: Some patients may not qualify for implants due to issues with jawbone density, health conditions, or other factors related to age.

Who Is A Candidate For A Dental Bridge?

To determine if a patient is suitable for the dental bridge method, the dentist will need to consider the following factors:

1. Missing Teeth

A patient has lost one or more permanent teeth. The missing teeth must be consecutive, and there should be at least one or two healthy teeth on each side of the gap to attach crowns that support the replacement bridge. Especially in areas with significant tooth loss where maximum aesthetics are required, such as the front teeth, an Anterior Bridge is considered one of the optimal choices.

Missing Teeth

2. Good Overall Health And Good Oral Health

Overall health and oral health are important factors to consider when placing a dental bridge. The teeth, gums, jaw, and overall health need to be in good condition as they support the bridge. The patient’s jawbone also needs to be healthy; cases with jawbone deterioration cannot proceed with a dental bridge and require bone grafting first. Patients with serious medical conditions or those with gum inflammation, periodontal disease, or other infections also need to undergo recovery treatment before considering a dental bridge.

3. Healthy Abutment Teeth

To qualify for a Dental Bridge, the teeth on either side of the gap must be strong enough to serve as abutments. Otherwise, chewing pressure could damage these teeth, potentially leading to the failure of the entire bridge.

4. Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential for anyone considering a dental bridge. It helps keep the gums healthy and the teeth strong, supporting the bridge for daily comfort. Good oral hygiene includes brushing and flossing at least twice a day. Regular dental check-ups and monitoring of your diet are also necessary to ensure the long lifespan of your Dental Bridge.

Good Oral Hygiene

Dental Bridge At VTA

The Dental Crowns and Bridges at VTA, particularly Dental Bridges, meet the highest standards, crafted from premium branded raw materials through standardized and consistent processes. Whether your clinic is digitally equipped or prefers a traditional workflow, our fixed dental bridges will meet the needs of your dental practice. Our comprehensive list of dental bridge materials includes ceramics, composite materials, metal, and, most popularly, zirconia, allowing dentists to consistently meet their expectations.

With a diverse Types of Zirconia—from Full Zirconia, Layered Zirconia, and Multilayer Zirconia, to High Translucent Zirconia—made from the finest quality zirconia, your dental clinic will receive restorations that not only achieve aesthetics comparable to E.max but also provide flexural strength similar to PFM restorations. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to elevate your practice with the perfect dental bridges tailored to your needs at VTA. Visit our website for more details.