Bridges

Dental bridges are used to repair lost teeth. They can improve your look, restore your chewing performance, and improve your dental health. A dental bridge is made up of crowns (which fit over your natural teeth on either side of the space) and artificial teeth (which "bridge the gap" in your mouth).

Parts of the Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is made up of many components, including:

The structures that support your dental bridge are known as abutments. Pontics are artificial (fake) teeth that fill the gap caused by missing teeth. Your bridge may consist of one or more abutments and one or more pontics, depending on your situation and the type of bridge you receive.

Types of Dental Bridges

Traditional fixed bridges: The most common type of bridge is the traditional fixed bridge. It has a crown on either side of the pontic.

Maryland dental bridges: Maryland dental bridges, also known as resin-bonded bridges, are frequently used to replace front teeth. Instead of crowns, this type of dental bridge makes use of porcelain or metal supports with "wings" fixed to the back of your teeth on each side of the gap.

Implant-supported bridges: For each lost tooth, an implant is used in implant-supported bridges that are surgically inserted into the jawbone. In a subsequent treatment, the bridge will be placed over the pontics.

Advantages

• Provide a natural-looking tooth replacement option.
• Restore chewing and speech function (missing teeth can make eating and speaking difficult).
• Prevent adjacent teeth from moving into the space caused by lost teeth.

Disadvantages

• Damage to your abutment teeth caused by decay or trauma might weaken your dental bridge.
• Your abutment teeth could fracture if they aren't strong enough to support your bridge. Plaque and bacteria can cause gum irritation or cavities if the bridge and underlying gum tissue are not thoroughly cleaned.

Tips to Make Your Dental Bridge Last

• Brush and floss your teeth every day.
• Use non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste.
• Use interproximal brushes, which are tiny brushes designed to fit between your teeth, or floss threaders to clean beneath your bridge each day. Don't eat anything that is too tough to chew. Avoid chewing on your fingernails, ice, pens, or pencils.
• Schedule frequent checkups and cleanings with your dentist.

Are you missing teeth and looking for a solution that restores both function and aesthetics? Look no further! At our Bronx, New York practice, Dr. Finlay specializes in creating custom dental bridges that can enhance your smile and improve your dental health. Contact our Dental smile-saver office to book your consultation.

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