Dental Bridges

For some people it can be traumatic to lose a tooth either through an accident, injury or decay.

Losing a tooth can affect the way you look, speak and how you eat. The gap or gaps left behind from the loss of a tooth can compromise a person’s chewing ability.

The missing tooth can put extra pressure on the teeth either side of the gap causing those teeth to lean into the gap, trapping food and causing further decay which can result in further tooth loss.

There are many different treatments that can fill in the gap of missing teeth and to improve the appearance of a smile and most importantly the function of the other teeth to prevent further damage that might have been caused.

A dental bridge, also known as a partial denture, will help prevent any further damage to the remaining teeth and gums.

There are 3 types of dental bridges:

• Maryland Bridge – Gets its name from the University of Maryland where it was developed, hence its name Maryland bridge. It is also known as a resin bonded bridge. It is a combination bridge (porcelain fused to a metal framework) this framework takes the form of two wings attached to either side of the pontic. The wings are then attached to the back of the natural teeth either side of the gap by using a strong bonding resin.
• Traditional fixed bridges – By far the most popular type of bridge used in restorative dentistry. The pontic is between two ceramic crowns which are then fixed to your natural teeth of dental implants. This dental bridge can be made from full ceramic or a combination of ceramic and metal. Once the bridge has been attached it cannot be removed.
• Cantilever Bridges – Used when there are teeth on one-side of the gap. The result of this type of bridge is just as aesthetic as any other dental bridge but the main benefit is that fewer teeth need to be treated.

Dental Bridges can be made from a combination of ceramic and metal or gold or full ceramic.