Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are prosthetic devices used to replace one or more missing teeth by spanning the gap created by these missing teeth. They consist of one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, anchored in place by dental crowns on the adjacent natural teeth, known as abutment teeth.

The process of placing dental bridges typically involves preparing the abutment teeth by removing a portion of their enamel to accommodate the crowns fitted to hold the bridge securely. Once placed, bridges restore functionality for chewing and speaking, enhance the smile's appearance, and prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of alignment.

Dental bridges are a durable and effective solution for tooth replacement, with various types available, including traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, and Maryland bridges, each suited to different situations depending on the number and location of the missing teeth.  

The Importance of Dental Bridges 

Restoration of Functionality 

One of the primary benefits of dental bridges is their ability to restore functionality to the mouth. Missing teeth can significantly impair a person's ability to chew food correctly, affecting nutrition and overall health. By filling the gap with a dental bridge, individuals regain their ability to chew effectively, enabling them to enjoy a wider range of foods. This restoration of function is essential for dietary variety and maintaining proper digestion and overall well-being.  

Enhancement of Aesthetic Appearance 

Dental bridges play a significant role in enhancing the appearance of a person's smile. Missing teeth can create noticeable gaps that could impact confidence and self-esteem. Dental bridges are designed to closely match natural teeth's color, shape, and size, providing a seamless and natural-looking result. This aesthetic improvement helps individuals feel more confident in social and professional settings, contributing to a positive self-image and overall quality of life.  

Prevention of Tooth Shifting 

The adjacent teeth can shift into the space when a tooth is lost. This shifting can lead to misaligning the bite and potentially cause further dental issues, such as tooth decay or gum disease. Dental bridges in Santa Clara, CA, prevent this shifting by filling the gap and maintaining the alignment of the remaining teeth. This stability helps preserve the overall structure of the mouth, preventing additional dental problems and reducing the need for more extensive treatments in the future. 

Maintenance of Jawbone Health 

Losing teeth can also reduce jawbone density over time. The underlying jawbone may deteriorate when teeth are missing because chewing forces no longer stimulate it. Dental bridges help mitigate this issue by supporting the surrounding teeth and distributing chewing forces more evenly. While implant-supported bridges are particularly effective in preserving jawbone health by providing direct stimulation to the bone, even traditional bridges contribute to maintaining the overall health of the oral structure. 

Types of Dental Bridges 

Traditional Bridges

Traditional bridges are the most common type and involve placing a bridge consisting of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, supported by crowns on the adjacent natural teeth, called abutments. This method is highly effective for replacing one or more consecutive missing teeth. It is commonly made from porcelain, ceramic fused to metal, or all-ceramic for optimal aesthetics and durability. Contact us today to learn more.

Benefits: 

• Suitable for replacing one or more missing teeth in a row. 

• Made from solid materials like porcelain fused to metal or all-ceramic, offering long-lasting results. 

• Porcelain or ceramic materials closely mimic the look of natural teeth, enhancing aesthetics. 

Cantilever Bridges

Cantilever bridges are used when adjacent teeth are on only one side of the missing tooth. This type involves anchoring the bridge with a crown on just one side of the gap. They are typically crafted from porcelain or ceramic to blend seamlessly with natural teeth. However, they are not recommended for areas subject to heavy chewing forces due to the increased stress on the lone supporting tooth.  

Benefits: 

• Requires fewer crowns than traditional bridges, as only one side of the gap is supported. 

• Often used for teeth where less stress is applied to the bridge.  

• Preserves more of the adjacent teeth compared to traditional methods.

Maryland Bridges

Maryland bridges, also known as resin-bonded bridges, use metal or porcelain wings bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth instead of relying on crowns. This type is particularly suitable for replacing front teeth, preserving more natural tooth structures than traditional bridges. Maryland bridges are generally less invasive and quicker to place but less suitable for back teeth that undergo more vital chewing forces.  

Benefits: 

• Less invasive as it does not require the extensive alteration of adjacent teeth. 

• Generally faster to place compared to traditional bridges. 

• Ideal for situations where conserving natural tooth structure is essential.

Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges are a solution for replacing multiple missing teeth that uses dental implants as the support structure rather than natural teeth. The family dentist in Santa Clara, CA, surgically places implants into the jawbone, and the bridge is then attached to these implants. This type of bridge is ideal for patients who prefer not to alter healthy adjacent teeth while having a robust and durable foundation for their bridge. However, it involves a surgical procedure and is typically more expensive. 

Benefits: 

• Does not involve preparing or altering nearby healthy teeth preserving natural tooth structure. 

• Implants provide a solid foundation, making the bridge highly durable and stable. 

• Implants help maintain jawbone density and structure, which can be compromised when teeth are missing. 

Dental bridges offer an effective and reliable solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring functionality and aesthetics. Visit Crestview Family Dental at 265 Crestview Dr, Santa Clara, CA 95050, or call (408) 217-0727 to explore how dental bridges can enhance your smile, improve functionality, and support your oral health.