Dental Bridges: Their Need, Main Types & Aftercare Tips

Dental Bridges: Their Need, Main Types & Aftercare Tips

December 1, 2021

Dental Bridges Explained

Dental bridges are fixed restorations used for replacing one or more missing teeth. They’re customized to mimic the shape, size, and shade of natural teeth. They consist of an artificial tooth and abutment.

The abutment provides support to the teeth on each side. If you’ve more than one missing tooth, you may require multiple bridges. Other situations may call for dentures. Dental bridges are generally made of porcelain or all-ceramic. A metal structure is placed to support the dental bridge.

Why are Dental Bridges Needed?

About 70% of adults between 35 to 44 years of age have at least one lost tooth. Our dentist in La Marque, TX, recommends dental bridges if you have existing dental crowns.

A tooth loss from extraction or tooth loss can be caused by:

  • Direct trauma or injury to your teeth
  • Extreme tooth decay
  • Certain medications
  • Periodontal diseases

Different Types of Dental Bridges

A dentist will recommend a bridge depending on the budget, your oral health, the number of teeth missing, and position. Here are the different types of dental bridges:

1. Traditional Bridges

They are the most common dental bridge type. Traditional bridges are made of ceramic or metal materials like gold or porcelain fused metal materials. They contain pontic, which is a fake tooth. Dental crowns on both sides are used to hold the pontic in place.

For the precise fitting, shaping the existing teeth next to the fake tooth is also involved in the traditional bridge procedure. They are strong and can last long with proper dental care. They are used to restore the back teeth, that are, molars & premolars.

2. Cantilever Bridges

Cantilever bridges are made of porcelain fused metal. They are similar to traditional bridges. However, the cantilever needs support from a tooth next to the gap. An artificial tooth is placed on either side of the fake tooth in this procedure. These bridges are standard for restoring front teeth.

3. Implant-Supported Bridges

Dental implants are used for supporting dental bridges in the implant-supported bridges procedure. Bridges replace molars and premolars. They are ideal if you’ve at least three missing molars or premolars in a row.

4. Maryland Bridges

Maryland bridges contain a fake tooth supported by a metal frame. They are also known as adhesive bridges and are less invasive in comparison to traditional bridges. They contain porcelain materials and have wings for stabilizing them while bonding with the adjacent teeth.

While installing these bridges, less shaping of teeth is required. Maryland bridges are placed at the backside of the front teeth next to the missing tooth. They are common for replacing incisors. However, they are rarely used in canines as canines are important for bites & Maryland bridges can shift or loosen.

Dental Bridges Aftercare Tips

After getting dental bridges, practicing good oral hygiene is important. Below are the tips for managing discomfort and ensuring the longevity of your dental bridges:

Managing Pain

The procedure of dental bridges is relatively painless. After the treatment, you may feel tenderness or swelling on the gums. You can manage the discomfort with over-the-counter medication prescribed by a dentist.

When implant-supported bridges are the alternative treatment, minor surgery may be required. You may feel tooth sensitivity or jaw swelling during the first days after the procedure.

Maintaining Oral Hygiene

You should brush & floss your teeth two times a day. However, extra efforts are also required to ensure there is no build-up under the fake crown.

This prevents cavities at the edge of the bridges and reduces inflammation. Some additional tools like water floss or super floss will be required if you are flossing between and under the bridges.

Maintaining Diet

A temporary bridge is placed first before getting the permanent bridge. Temporary bridges protect the shaped teeth. During this period, you should ensure a proper. Avoid chewy or sticky foods like candy & hard food substances such as nuts.

You can take a diet full of soft foods like soups, yogurts, or mashed potatoes. Lastly, you should use the opposite side for chewing when the temporary bridge is in place.

Consult a Dentist Near You

Are you looking to get dental bridges in La Marque, TX? Give us a call or book a consultation with us at South Star Dental today!