Benefits of Choosing Dental Bridges for Tooth Replacement

Dental bridges effectively replace missing teeth by bridging the gap created by one or more lost teeth. They consist of artificial teeth (pontics) anchored to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. This restoration not only restores functionality for chewing and speaking but also helps maintain facial structure and prevents remaining teeth from shifting out of position. Dental bridges come in different types, including traditional bridges held by crowns on adjacent teeth and resin-bonded bridges for minimal preparation. They provide a durable and aesthetic option for patients seeking to effectively restore their smile and oral health. 

What to Expect During the Dental Bridge Procedure 

• Our dentist in Federal Way, WA, will examine your oral health, including the condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. X-rays may be taken to assess bone structure and the health of surrounding teeth. 

• If you get a traditional bridge, the adjacent teeth (abutment teeth) on either side of the gap will be prepared. This involves reshaping these teeth to accommodate dental crowns anchoring the bridge. 

• After preparing the abutment teeth, our dentist will take impressions of your teeth and the gap. These impressions will serve as a model for creating your custom bridge, ensuring a precise fit. 

• Our dentist may place a temporary bridge to protect the exposed teeth and gums while the permanent bridge is fabricated in a dental laboratory. This temporary bridge is usually made from acrylic and is less durable than the final bridge. 

• Your impressions and specifications are sent to a dental laboratory where skilled technicians will fabricate your custom bridge. This process may take a few weeks. 

• Once your permanent bridge is ready, you will return to the dentist's office for placement. The dentist will check the fit and make necessary adjustments to ensure proper bite and comfort. 

• The permanent bridge is then cemented or bonded into place. The dentist carefully positions and secures it onto the prepared abutment teeth or implants. 

• Our dentist will provide instructions on caring for your new bridge, including oral hygiene practices and dietary considerations to ensure longevity and effectiveness. Contact us today to learn more.

Different Types of Dental Bridges and Their Uses 

Traditional Bridges 

Traditional bridges are a common solution for replacing missing teeth. They consist of pontics (artificial teeth) anchored between dental crowns placed on adjacent natural teeth. The adjacent teeth, called abutments, are prepared by reshaping them to fit crowns, which act as anchors for the pontic. This type of bridge is suitable when adjacent teeth are strong and healthy enough to support the bridge structure. 

Uses: 

• Replace one or more missing teeth that are adjacent to each other. 

• Restore chewing function and aesthetic appearance. 

• Prevent adjacent teeth from shifting out of position. 

Cantilever Bridges 

Cantilever bridges are used when adjacent teeth are on only one side of the gap left by a missing tooth. Traditional bridges involve placing a pontic, supported by a single crown, on one side only. This design is beneficial in areas of the mouth with less stress and when limited support is available. 

Uses: 

• Suitable when there is only one adjacent tooth available to support the bridge. 

• Used in areas of the mouth with less stress during chewing. 

Maryland Bonded Bridges

Maryland bonded bridges are a conservative option primarily used for replacing front teeth. They consist of plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal framework bonded to the backs of adjacent natural teeth using resin cement. Unlike traditional bridges, Maryland bridges do not require significant reshaping or crowning of adjacent teeth, making them less invasive but less durable. 

Uses: 

• Replace missing front teeth with minimal alteration of adjacent teeth. 

• Restore aesthetics and function in areas where bite forces are lighter. 

• Quick and conservative solution for restoring a natural smile. 

Implant-Supported Bridges 

Implant-supported bridges provide a stable alternative to traditional ones supported by dental implants rather than natural teeth. Implants are surgically placed into the jawbone to act as anchors for the bridge. This type of bridge is highly stable, prevents bone loss in the jaw, and does not rely on adjacent teeth for support. It is suitable for replacing several missing teeth in a row or when adjacent natural teeth are not strong enough to support a traditional bridge. 

Uses: 

• Replace multiple missing teeth. 

• Provide a stable and long-lasting solution without relying on adjacent natural teeth. 

• Preserve jawbone density and prevent bone loss in the area of missing teeth. 

• Restore full chewing function and improve overall oral health. 

The Benefits of Dental Bridges

Choosing dental bridges in Federal Way, WA, for tooth replacement offers several benefits. Firstly, bridges restore the aesthetics of a complete smile, enhancing facial appearance and boosting self-confidence. They also improve chewing function by filling gaps and distributing biting forces evenly among remaining natural teeth or dental implants. Dental bridges help prevent adjacent teeth from shifting out of position, which can lead to bite misalignment and jaw problems. Moreover, they provide a durable and long-lasting solution that requires minimal maintenance compared to removable options like dentures. Bridges can also be customized to match the natural teeth in color, shape, and size, ensuring a seamless blend with the rest of the smile. Overall, dental bridges enhance oral function and aesthetics and contribute to better oral health and overall well-being. 

Dental bridges offer a comprehensive solution for restoring function and aesthetics after tooth loss. Visit First Smile Family Dental at 32717 1st Ave S., Suite 9, Federal Way, WA 98003, or call (253) 785-7323 to schedule a consultation and determine if dental bridges are right for you.