Dental bridge

Sobczak concept of dental bridge

A dental bridge is a dental prosthesis used to replace one or more missing teeth. This article provides a detailed overview of dental bridges, including their types, components, advantages, and the procedure for their placement.

Types of dental bridges

Dental bridges come in several types, each designed to meet specific dental needs:

• traditional dental bridge: This is the most common type of bridge, consisting of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by dental crowns on adjacent natural teeth.

• cantilever bridge: When only one adjacent natural tooth is available, a cantilever bridge is used, with the pontic supported on one side.

• maryland bridge: Also known as a resin-bonded or adhesive bridge, it uses metal or porcelain wings on the backside of adjacent natural teeth for support, offering a conservative option.

• implant-supported bridge: These bridges are anchored to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone, providing exceptional stability and support.

Components of a dental bridge

A typical dental bridge consists of the following components:

• pontic: The artificial tooth that replaces the missing tooth or teeth.
• abutment teeth: Natural teeth or dental implants that serve as anchors and support the pontic.
• dental crowns: Crowns are placed on the abutment teeth to provide stability and hold the pontic in place.

Advantages of dental bridges

Dental bridges offer several advantages:

• Improved aesthetics: They restore the appearance of a complete smile.
• Enhanced functionality: Bridges restore the ability to chew and speak properly.
• Prevention of shifting teeth: Filling the gap prevents neighboring teeth from shifting out of position.
• Preservation of jawbone: Bridges can help maintain the integrity of the jawbone.
• Quick and non-invasive: Compared to some alternatives, bridge placement is relatively quick and non-invasive.

Procedure for dental bridge placement

The placement of a dental bridge typically involves the following steps:

• 1. Consultation: The dentist assesses the patient's oral health and discusses the treatment plan.
• 2. Tooth preparation: If necessary, the abutment teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to accommodate crowns.
• 3. Impressions: Impressions of the teeth are taken to create custom-made crowns and pontic.
• 4. Temporary bridge: A temporary bridge may be placed while the permanent bridge is being fabricated.
• 5. Bridge placement: The custom-made bridge is cemented onto the abutment teeth or attached to dental implants.
• 6. Final adjustments: The dentist makes final adjustments to ensure proper fit and bite.

See also

• dentistry
• oral health
• dental implants