The Dental Bridge Procedure

The procedure for receiving a dental bridge can vary depending on which type of bridge you and your dentist have decided to pursue. There are three main types of bridges that are typically used to replace a missing tooth or multiple teeth.  These are often described as traditional, Maryland or cantilever bridges. The most popular is the traditional so let’s focus on that one. First, let’s determine your need for a bridge.

Do you have a gap between two teeth created by losing one or two permanent teeth? If so, you might be a candidate for a dental bridge. That gap can lead to other teeth shifting to an uncomfortable bite pattern and a smile that you are not proud of. The bridge is a prosthetic option that spans and fills that gap. It needs a tooth on each side of the gap to be designated as the abutment teeth, or the anchors for your new bridge.

Traditional Bridge

The traditional dental bridge begins with a dental appointment in which the two abutment teeth are reduced slightly to a smaller version of their original shape to accept crowns. Sometimes these teeth may also be candidates for root canals. An impression is then made of your teeth and sent off to a dental lab. The actual bridge most often is made of porcelain or ceramic over a base of metal. While you are waiting for the completion of the lab work your dentist will install a temporary bridge to protect your gums and abutment teeth. When the bridge is delivered, your dentist installs the bridge is affixed to the abutment teeth with a dental cement.

Maryland Bridge

A Maryland dental bridge is much like the traditional option, you just don’t crown the abutment teeth. The impression again is made and sent to the lab. Once the bridge is returned, the dentist will secure the bridge in the gap with small metal or porcelain wings. These wings are then bonded to the abutment teeth. The benefit of this approach is you have not subjected your abutment teeth to receiving crowns. Although permanent, it may not be as strong when it comes to your bite.

Cantilevel Bridge

The cantilever bridge is an option when you don’t have two abutment teeth on each side of the gap and the bridge will be affixed to just one permanent tooth. This tooth must be prepped for a crown so the crown and bridge, when completed at the dental lab, will be one solid piece.

By creating the bridge and artificial teeth out of the same type of porcelain, then the goal will be to have the teeth will look just like your natural teeth. With proper oral hygiene visits and brushing and flossing, a bridge should be a permanent solution for that unnecessary gap. The American Dental Association reports that the average American adult between the ages of 20 and 64 have missing teeth so don’t feel alone if you need to pursue a dental bridge. Your dentist will address your unique situation and together you will determine your correct solution. Different bridges and different materials can also change the cost of your new dental bridge. Won’t it be great to flash that big smile of yours again!

Just interested in learning more about dental bridges themselves? Here's more information about what bridges are exactly.