How to get a Permanent Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges are used to fill the gap created by one or more missing teeth. They are artificial replacements that restore your smile and help you resume your normal eating habits as fast as possible. But getting a dental bridge is not an easy task, especially if you have suffered from tooth loss for some time and your gums have receded, leaving little support for a traditional crown or other fixed restorations. A dental bridge replaces the gap left between two teeth with a false tooth attached to a fixed structure to be supported on either side of the gap. Such bridges can be made of metal or resin, with the former being more common.

What are Permanent Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth and restores the function of the jaw. A dentist takes detail of your teeth, the shape of jaw, and your preference for aesthetics to decide design of the permanent bridge. You may require two or more units on either side of the gap to support a dental bridge.

If your teeth are too weak to support a bridge, you may need to undergo gum surgery before you can have one. A permanent dental bridge is designed to replace one or more missing teeth with artificial ones attached to fixed restorations on either side of the gap. The teeth are usually made of synthetic materials like porcelain or metal.

Types of Permanent Dental Bridges

Fixed partial dental bridge – This is used to replace one or few missing tooth beside one or two teeth on either side of the gap. It is fixed on the other teeth. Heavier fixed partial dental bridges are also used to replace two missing teeth, on either side of the gap.

Traditional fixed bridge – This is used to replace full arch missing tooth on either or both jaws. The entire bridge is fixed permanently and can be made in materials like ceramic, polymers or zirconia.

Cantilever bridge – In this bridge type, the pontic connects to only one abutment tooth. This can sometimes be an option for people who have teeth on only one side of the gap.

Maryland dental bridge – You may have this type of bridge if you have missing front teeth. It’s made of porcelain fused to metal or ceramic teeth, supported by a framework. 

How is a Dental Bridge Made?

To make a dental bridge, your dentist will first prepare your teeth. The abutment teeth on either side of the gap will be treated with a dental drill to make room for the crowns that support the dental bridge. If more than one tooth is used for the dental bridge, the adjacent tooth will be treated with a mini-implant. The dental bridge will be made at a dental laboratory and will take a few weeks to be ready. Once the dental bridge is ready, you’ll need to visit your dentist for the fitting and attachment procedure.

To attach the dental bridge to the abutment teeth, your dentist will use an adhesive. The teeth will be treated with a special adhesive that won’t allow it to move. The bridge will be anchored to your teeth using a special adhesive. One advantage of using an adhesive to attach the dental bridge is that it can be removed, fixed again, and replaced as per your dentist’s instructions if required.

How long does a permanent dental bridge last?

Dental bridges can last at least five to seven years. With good oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings, the bridge may last more than 10 years.

Pros and cons of having a Dental Bridge

Pros of having a Dental Bridge – There are many benefits of having a dental bridge. You can eat and drink anything you want without worrying about falling off your dentures, unlike fixed partial dentures or removable partial dentures. You can also floss easily and clean the underneath of the bridge. Unlike fixed partial dentures, a dental bridge is aesthetically beautiful. It blends well with the surrounding teeth and improves your overall smile by replacing the gap with a natural-looking.

Cons of having a Dental Bridge – The main disadvantage of having a dental bridge is that it is a fixed prosthesis and will be with you for the rest of your life. So, if you are looking for a quick solution, dental implants or dentures might be a better alternative. Dental implants can replace teeth and can also be used as an anchor for a dental bridge.

When should you get a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges are recommended for people who have lost one or more teeth on either side of the teeth. Or in the middle. They are useful for people who are at a high risk of developing gum disease. Like those with diabetes, periodontal disease, or poor oral hygiene. People who have lost teeth, but have enough neighbouring ones to support a dental bridge, can consider getting dental bridges. These bridges are also a good option for people who want long-term solutions and want to use a single solution for many years.

Conclusion

Dental bridges are long-term solutions for missing teeth. They are more expensive than dental implants and dentures but can be used for many years. They can be used to replace one missing tooth, two missing teeth, or more. The main advantage of dental bridges is that they can be used for eating anything you want. Unlike dentures, dental bridges are fixed on your teeth and don’t need to be removed after every meal.

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