What are the Types of Dental Bridges?

There are four different types of dental bridges. Let’s first clarify what a dental bridge is and then we’ll identify how each of the four types has its advantages depending on the situation. A dental bridge spans a gap in your mouth when you are missing a tooth or multiple teeth. If you are missing one or more teeth, then a bridge is an option that might be recommended by your dentist. A bridge is a prosthetic appliance made by a dental lab and cemented in place by your dentist. Usually the bridge is made from porcelain and ceramic with a strong metal or ceramic base such that when in place you can’t tell the difference from your natural teeth.

The Traditional Dental Bridge

This method is by far the most popular. Whether you are missing one or two teeth, you need a tooth on each side of the gap for a traditional bridge to be considered an option. These two teeth become abutment teeth, or the anchors. They are filed down to a slightly smaller version of the original teeth, then an impression is taken of your teeth, and this model is made is sent to a dental lab. While waiting on the final bridge, the dentist will put a temporary bridge in place to protect the filed down teeth. When the bridge is returned it will have abutment crowns which will fit over the two abutment teeth and the bridge tooth or teeth are in between these two abutment crowns to fill in the missing space or spaces. The crowns are set into place when the bridge is cemented in, and this is the strongest and most permanent bridge available.

The Maryland Bridge

Considered a conservative option to the traditional, the Maryland bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework that bond to the two abutment teeth like wings. Using this alternative keeps the two abutment teeth from being filed down and receiving crowns. This type of bridge is not as strong when it comes to your bite and chewing, and you may not like the feel of the framework on your gums or your tongue.

The Cantilever Bridge

If you do not have two abutment teeth to anchor your bridge you can consider the cantilever bridge. To accomplish this the one anchor tooth is filed down, a bridge and crown is made at the dental lab, and then the crown is set with the single false tooth and secured to the crown. This can lead to complications depending on your bite. The false tooth can act as a lever and loosen the crown over time and chewing activity.

Implant Supported Bridge

If you are missing several teeth in one area, an implant supported bridge might be a good option for you.   The implants serve as the abutment teeth on either side of a gap.   Then the bridge is screwed or cemented into the abutments of the implants.  This gives this area strength, security and comfort to correct such a gap.

Bridges are very common. They play a huge role in restoring your smile and to also restore your ability to properly bite, chew and speak. They also will maintain the shape of your face and prevent your remaining teeth from drifting out of position. Let your dentist help guide you to make the decision about which type is best for you.

If you're ready to get started with a consultation about a dental bridge, learn more here now.

Just interested in learning more about dental bridges themselves? Here's more information about the dental bridge procedure.