Options for Dental Bridges to Replace Teeth and Span the Gaps in Your Smile
Bridges in the dental world help our patients in Boise, Idaho, get to their goal smile. They span the space between two points in your smile. By filling this space promptly following dental extraction or at the time of the removal of a tooth, the dentists at Summit Dental Group use bridges to restore or sustain a complete smile and healthy function.
And, while tooth loss is not a “normal” part of aging, accidents and other trauma can arise at any age. These injuries would then lead to the need for prompt tooth replacement. The longer you go without teeth, the worse your problems with chewing and speech become. Bone loss is a particularly destructive condition.
When bone in the jaw is lost, facial tissues also lose their supportive structure. In addition to functional challenges, bone resorption can dramatically and rapidly add years to the appearance of your face.
Fortunately, our dentists, Drs. Mooney, Studebaker, Ritchie and Richardson, have many options to prevent or halt these destructive complications of tooth loss with dental bridges:
- Conventional fixed bridge – Dental crowns and at least one replacement tooth (pontic) are fused as one piece. The crowns are placed on top of the neighboring “abutment” teeth that have been reduced in size to make room for each crown. Once in place, the pontic fills the space between the teeth, and the crowns provide strength to the abutments, which anchor or stabilize the replacement tooth
- Conventional removable bridge – With this method, the bridge still relies on the remaining teeth for support. However, the pontics or replacement teeth are not fused to crowns. Instead, they are connected to the teeth with special attachments or clasps. Patients need to remove their bridge for proper cleaning
- Implant-supported bridge – This type of bridge does not rely on the remaining teeth for its support. Instead, the bridge is stabilized with dental implants. Each implant is designed to function like a tooth root. Once positioned and healed in the jaw, the implant connects to the bridge. In turn, implants “root” or stabilize the bridge or replacement teeth
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How does a dental bridge replace missing teeth?
A bridge fills the gap left by missing teeth using artificial teeth anchored to neighboring teeth or implants. It restores your smile and chewing ability.
Q. How long does a dental bridge last?
With proper care and regular checkups, dental bridges can last over a decade or more. Good oral hygiene is essential for longevity.
Q. Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
Yes. Once adjusted, your bridge feels natural and allows you to chew comfortably and confidently.
Q. How do I care for my dental bridge?
Brush and floss daily, including under the bridge, and schedule regular cleanings to keep the supporting teeth healthy.
Q. What’s the difference between a bridge and an implant?
A bridge relies on nearby teeth for support, while an implant replaces the tooth root independently. Your dentist can recommend which is best for your case.
