Different Types & Uses Of Dental Bridge Treatments
Having missing teeth is not easy. It makes your smile less appealing, and it can increase the risk of some oral problems like halitosis. Luckily, there’s a solution for this problem, and the most common one is dental bridges.
Your Washington Heights dentist can close the gaps in your smile with these dental bridges. They are false teeth (called “pontics”) that fulfill that missing space. Pontics can be made from many materials, but they are usually made of porcelain to blend naturally with your other teeth.
There are four types of dental bridges, so be sure to read below their differences to know the best one for you.
Traditional Dental Bridges
Traditional fixed bridges consist of filler teeth supported by dental crowns placed over healthy teeth. These dental crowns can be placed on either side of the gap to keep the fixed bridge intact.
This dental bridge replaces missing teeth if there are still healthy teeth on any side of the gap. These healthy teeth must be reshaped and fitted with crowns before putting the fixed bridge. It is necessary to ensure they are strong enough to support the dental bridge.
Traditional fixed bridges are the most popular, so this may be the first option you hear.
Cantilever Dental Bridges
Cantilever bridges are similar to traditional fixed bridges, but they are used when there are no teeth on one side of the missing tooth. The Washington Heights dentist can recommend this type of bridge when there’s only one natural tooth next to the missing tooth.
In this case, the bridge is held in place by a dental crown added to only one tooth. Therefore, only one side supports the dental bridge with a natural tooth and a dental crown.
Some clinical situations may also require cantilever bridges. For example, when there are no teeth on both sides of the missing teeth, or if the abutment is already supporting another prosthetic restoration. In both cases, the dentist may recommend you to avoid traditional bridges.
Maryland Dental Bridges
Maryland fixed bridges are similar to traditional bridges as well. However, this kind of bridge uses a framework of metal or porcelain that’s connected to the backs of the healthy teeth.
Maryland bonded bridges are also called resin-bonded bridges. It is a great choice to replace front teeth, but it has limitations.
You can opt for this type of bridge only if you have a natural tooth on each side of the gap. Another thing to consider is that Maryland bridges are more conservative than traditional bridges because they do not require reshaping.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridges
A Washington Heights dental implant dentist may recommend implant-supported bridges as opposed to frameworks or crowns. Implant bridges are surgically placed for every missing tooth, and they hold the bridge in place.
Sometimes, implants are not possible for all missing teeth, and in that case, the bridge may have a pontic bounded by two implant-supported dental crowns.
How Much Do They Cost?
The price may vary depending on many factors, including the teeth needed to fill the gap, the materials used, the difficulty of the placement, etc. Additionally, you may need treatment for other dental issues like gum disease.
The price also depends on the type of bridge, but to give you an idea, a traditional bridge can cost up to $5,000 for one pontic, while Maryland bridges usually cost up to $2,500 for one pontic with an entire framework. Implant-supported bridges are usually the most expensive, with prices rounding the $15,000.
What’s The Difference Between Dental Bridge & Dental Implant?
Dental bridges need replacements every 5 or 15 years, while implants are permanent. Take into account that most dental insurance plans cover bridges, but they may also cover implants.
When Is A Dental Bridge Necessary?
You should always consult your trusted Washington Height dentist for the most viable options when you have missing teeth. A dental bridge can be a great option if you want to restore your smile, the ability to chew, and your pronunciation. Just remember that you have different replacement options for your missing teeth.
Dental Clinic In Washington Heights
If you want a healthier and brighter smile, contact Esthetix Dental Spa today! We have some of the best and most experienced dental professionals as well as amazing dental technologies. Besides, we offer numerous services, including dental bonding, porcelain crowns, laser dentistry, and so on. We are minutes away from the George Washington bridge (GW bridge), so feel free to reach out to us or simply contact us by phone or email.
Esthetix Dentist, NYC’s Dental Implant & Cosmetic Specialist
285 Fort Washington Ave,
New York, NY 10032
Phone: (212) 795-9675
Website: http://esthetixdentalspa.com/