What is a dental bridge?
Teeth loss can result from poor oral hygiene, dental cavities, gum diseases, facial trauma, and even certain systemic illnesses. Living with missing teeth is difficult as it comprises the way we eat, affects speech, the way we smile, and also our self-confidence. Therefore, it is of the essence to replace missing teeth with an effective solution.
One of the most common methods of replacing missing teeth is dentures. However, these are removable, can be uncomfortable, and do not restore full chewing capability. Therefore, dental bridges were introduced.
Dental bridges are a form of dental prostheses that replace missing teeth. A dental bridge can be used to replace single or multiple teeth. The prerequisite for a dental bridge is the presence of healthy teeth on either side of the missing teeth space. Dental bridges consist of an abutment and a pontic. A pontic or a false tooth replaces the missing teeth. Whereas crowns are placed on the supporting teeth. So a pontic or series of false teeth are suspended on the missing teeth space with the help of crowns on adjacent healthy teeth.
Dental bridges can be made from metal, most commonly stainless steel, porcelain fused to metal, or entirely from porcelain. All-porcelain/all-ceramic dental bridges provide excellent aesthetics and are specially used for replacing missing front teeth. Metal dental bridges and porcelain fused to metal bridges are generally used to replace back teeth which need more robust material as they sustain the brunt of chewing surfaces.
Metal dental bridges can last for 20+ plus years with good oral care. In comparison, the porcelain layer, which is fused to metal, may chip off in some years. All porcelain bridges also resist staining and have a long lifespan.
If you have any more questions or would like to schedule an appointment to replace missing teeth in Southern Delaware, please reach out to us. Our team of excellent dental professionals at Southern Delaware Dental Specialists is here to assist you with a complete and bright smile.
