Dental Bridges

Bridges are one of the most reliable and cost-effective ways restore a smile after losing several teeth. At Amherst Village Dental, our team wants to share how dental bridges can help restore our patients’ smiles.

What Are Bridges?

A dental bridge fills a gap between two teeth. A typical bridge uses natural teeth for support on two opposite ends – these supporting teeth are known as abutments. A bridge has two principal sections: the crowns and the pontic teeth. The crowns goes to the abutment while the teeth of the pontic teeth bridge the gap. There are several other forms of bridges that uphold the basic principles of what a dental bridge is but go about it in a different way. Depending on the needs of the patient, one of these may be used instead of traditional bridges.

Cantilever

A cantilever bridge only requires one supporting abutment tooth. Cantilever teeth are most often used in cases involving missing front teeth. Cantilever teeth can be cheaper and quicker to install, but they are poor choices for the areas of the mouth further back where the bite forces are stronger.

Composite

Composite bridges use resin to fill the teeth void. Composite bridges are relatively cheap, but, like Cantilever bridges, should not be used in areas with intense bite force.

Implant Bridges

Implants are used as the abutment teeth for this type of bridge instead of a patient’s original teeth. Implants are screws placed in the jawbone and are considered a more durable bridge base than varieties that use natural teeth for support. Implant bridges are typically the longest-lasting type of bridge. However, this durability comes at a trade-off of increased cost.

Maryland

Maryland bridges are similar to conventional bridges, but the difference is that a metal frame is applied to two opposite teeth. Then the false teeth are placed. Maryland bridges help protect healthy teeth and don’t require stripping away tooth material to make abutments.

Caring For Bridges

There are multiple factors that determine how long a bridge will last, and the type of bridge is one of those factors. Nevertheless, a bridge that is treated properly and treated with good oral care practices can last up to 15 years. The bridge should be brushed twice a day using low abrasive toothpaste, as abrasive chemicals can wear down bridges and cause them to need replacement sooner. Patients must be aware of the wear and tear that is put upon bridges. Bridges that our team place in the back of a patient’s mouth will be better suited for biting and chewing, so patients are urged to be easy on bridges placed at the front of the mouth.

Talk To Us About Dental Restoration

If you wish to learn more about bridges and other restorative dentistry, to see if they are a solution to your oral health issues, our professionals at Amherst Village Dental will be happy to advise you. You can call our office at 603-769-8985 if you wish to contact our team to arrange an appointment or ask any questions.

 

 

603-673-5510

1 Limbo Lane
Amherst, NH 03031-1871

Mon – Wed: 7:00am – 4:00pm
Thur: 8:00am – 2:00pm