A dental bridges Smithfield VA is a restorative dental device used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are anchored in place by crowns fitted over the healthy adjacent teeth on either side of the gap. This structure effectively “bridges” the space where teeth are missing.
There are different parts that make up a dental bridge:
Abutments are the structures that support your dental bridge. While the term often refers to natural teeth, it can also refer to tiny connector posts used in dental implant-supported bridges.
Pontics are the artificial (false) teeth that fill in the gap left behind by missing teeth.
Depending on your situation and the type of dental bridges Smithfield VA you receive, your bridge might consist of one or more abutments and one or more pontics.
Types of dental bridges
Dentists use different types of dental bridges Smithfield VA based on your oral health goals. The main four types of dental bridges include:
Traditional dental bridge. This is the most common type of dental bridge. It consists of dental crowns (caps) on both ends with pontics (artificial teeth) in between. A dentist bonds the crowns to your natural teeth (abutments) on either side of the gap, and the artificial teeth (pontics) fill in the space between. Dentists use traditional dental bridges when you have healthy natural teeth on both sides of the gap.
Cantilever dental bridge. A cantilever dental bridges Smithfield VA is similar to a traditional bridge. But there’s only a crown on one end, not both. So, when your dentist bonds the bridge onto your abutment tooth, the artificial tooth (pontic) “hangs over” or extends across the gap. Dentists use cantilever bridges when you only have natural teeth on one side of the gap. Due to their design, cantilever bridges aren’t as strong as traditional bridges.
Maryland dental bridge. A Maryland bridge (or resin-bonded bridge) uses metal wings instead of crowns to secure your bridge. A dentist bonds the wings to the backs of your neighboring teeth to hold your bridge in place. Dentists typically use Maryland bridges to replace front teeth. These appliances aren’t strong enough to withstand the chewing forces of back teeth.
Implant-supported bridge. An implant-supported dental bridges Smithfield VA is similar to a traditional bridge, but it rests atop dental implants instead of natural teeth. Dental implants are small threaded posts that replace missing teeth roots. Before attaching a bridge to dental implants, your implants must fully integrate (fuse) with your jawbone. This process takes three to six months on average, but it can take longer depending on your situation. Dentists can use implant-supported bridges when you have three or more missing teeth in a row.
How long does it take to recover after a dental bridge procedure?
Recovery times vary from person to person and depend on several factors. On average, it takes one to two weeks for your teeth and gums to heal. But it can take a little longer for your new dental bridge to feel totally natural and comfortable.
How long does a dental bridge last?
On average, the lifespan of a dental bridges Smithfield VA is five to 15 years. Some can last even longer with proper care and maintenance. You may hear dentists call these “permanent bridges.” They’re permanent in the sense that only a dentist can remove them. But they don’t last forever. You’ll still need to replace them when they show signs of wear or damage.
What’s the ideal age for a dental bridge?
Most dentists don’t place dental bridges in people younger than 17 or 18, but there are exceptions. For example, a dentist may place a Maryland bridge if a child loses a permanent tooth. Even then, other options may work better, such as a temporary partial denture (sometimes called a “flipper”).
How many teeth can be on a bridge?
Most commonly, a dental bridges Smithfield VA replaces one to three teeth in a row. In some cases, a bridge can replace up to four consecutive teeth. But keep in mind, longer bridges usually require more support. So, to replace four missing teeth with a bridge, you need healthy natural teeth on both sides of the gap.
