Dental bridge
(Redirected from Dental bridges)
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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