Dental Bridge

 

A Bridge is a large unit of several crowns that are connected together. A bridge is needed when a tooth is missing, the bridge helps to replace the missing tooth.

Bridges are false teeth that are designed to "bridge" the gap created by one or more missing teeth. Bridges can be anchored on either side by crowns and cemented permanently into place.


Why do you need a bridge? 

A bridge can:

•   Restore your smile
•   Restore the ability to properly chew and speak
•   Maintain the shape of your face
•   Distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth
•   Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position

What types of dental bridges are available?

There are three main types of dental bridges:

1.    Traditional Bridges
2.    Cantilever Bridges
3.    Maryland Bonded Bridges


Traditional Bridges

Traditional bridges involve creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic (crown for the missing tooth) in between. Traditional bridges are the most common type of bridge and are made of either porcelain fused to metal or ceramics. The bridge is a good idea if you are missing a tooth, and the teeth on either side of the missing spot need work done.

Cantilever Bridges

Cantilever bridges are used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth.


Maryland Bonded Bridges

Maryland bonded bridges also called a resin-bonded bridge or simply a Maryland Bridge are made of plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal framework. Metal wings on each side of the bridge are bonded to your existing teeth.

 

Source:  WebMD