What Is the Alternative to a Dental Bridge?

When a tooth is lost, it can have a major impact on your smile and your oral health. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth can shift out of place, which can lead to a bad bite or problems with chewing and speaking. A dental bridge is one way to replace a missing tooth. But what is the alternative to a dental bridge?

An implant is the best alternative to a dental bridge. Dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone and serve as a base for artificial teeth. Implants are strong and stable, and they look and function just like natural teeth.

Another alternative to a dental bridge is a partial denture. A partial denture is a removable appliance that replaces one or more missing teeth. Partial dentures are usually made of plastic and metal, and they are held in place by natural suction or metal clasps. Partial dentures are not as stable or strong as dental implants, but they are a good option for people who are not candidates for implants.

No matter which option you choose, replacing missing teeth is important for your oral health and your overall wellbeing. Talk to your dentist about which option is right for you.

A dental bridge is a false tooth, known as a pontic, which is fused between two crowns to fill in the space of a missing tooth. The two crowns holding it in place are attached to existing teeth, known as abutment teeth, and the pontic lies in the gap. Dental bridges are made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials and are bonded to the natural teeth or implants surrounding the empty space. Bridges can be supported by natural teeth or implants.

The main benefit of a dental bridge is that it can literally bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. This not only improves the aesthetics of your smile, but also restores chewing function and prevents the remaining teeth from shifting out of place. Bridges are very strong and can last many years, but they do require proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits to keep them clean and in good shape.

A dental bridge is a false tooth, known as a pontic, which is fused between two porcelain crowns to fill in the space of a missing tooth. The two crowns holding it in place are attached to your natural teeth or implants surrounding the empty space. This is known as a fixed bridge.

A fixed bridge cannot be taken out of your mouth as you might do with removable partial dentures. Bridges are made to match your natural teeth in color and shape.

The process of getting a dental bridge usually takes two or three visits to the dentist. Your dentist will first prepare the teeth on either side of the empty space by removing a portion of enamel to make room for the crown.

Next, an impression of the teeth is made and sent to a dental laboratory where the pontic and crowns are made. In the meantime, your dentist will fit you with a temporary bridge.

At your next visit, the temporary bridge will be removed and the permanent bridge will be checked and adjusted, as needed, to achieve a proper fit. Once the bridge is in place, your dentist will make sure the bite is correct and the pontic is the right color and shape.

A dental bridge can last five to 15 years and even longer with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.

There are a few risks to getting a dental bridge. One is that your gum line could recede, or you could develop infections under the bridge. These risks are usually due to poor oral hygiene. It is important to brush and floss daily, and to see your dentist regularly to have the bridge checked and cleaned. Another risk is that the bridge could come loose, especially if you grind your teeth at night. This can damage the bridge and your teeth. If the bridge is not properly cared for, it can also lead to tooth decay.