Different Types of Dental Bridges

When having a tooth or teeth replaced, you may be met with a few different options. Whether your dentist decides dentures, implants or a dental bridge are best for you, there may still be the choice of which specific type of dentures, implants or bridge they think would be best. If your dentist decides that you are a good candidate for a dental bridge, they may discuss a few different bridge options with you. In order to understand these options, it’s important to first understand what dental bridges are.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

Put simply, a dental bridge is a dental appliance that helps to bridge the gap where a tooth or a few teeth are missing. While this may be done using crowns (abutments) placed on healthy teeth, it may also involve the use of a metal or porcelain frame.

Why Should I Consider the Placement of a Dental Bridge?

No matter which form of bridge is used, the bridge will help to provide both cosmetic and functional benefits. By completing your smile, a bridge can help to boost your appearance and self-esteem. Because a dental bridge will help to stop the migration of your teeth, it will also be easier to take proper care of your oral health. Finally, a dental bridge will help to provide the support you need to chew, bite and speak.

What Are the Types of Dental Bridges?

If your dentist decides that a dental bridge is the right option for you, they will consider which type of dental bridge is right for your particular needs. Below are three of the most common types of dental bridges:

Traditional Bridges

The most common type of dental bridge is the traditional bridge. Traditional bridges involve the placement of abutments on healthy teeth on both sides of the gap where a tooth or teeth are missing. Between these abutments (crowns) is the pontic (false tooth or set of teeth). The abutments are secured with dental cement, and hold the pontic in place.

Cantilever Bridges

Another option is the cantilever bridge. These bridges are very similar to traditional bridges, in that they involve the placement of an abutment on a reshaped, healthy tooth that holds a pontic in place. Unlike traditional bridges, though, cantilever bridges use only one abutment to hold the
pontic in place.

Maryland Bridges

The final type of bridge is the Maryland bridge. Maryland bridges are a bit different from traditional and cantilever bridges, as they don’t involve the reshaping of healthy teeth. Instead, a frame (wings) is used to hold the false tooth or set of teeth in place. This helps a patient to keep as much of their natural teeth as possible.

Which Is Right for Me?

Ultimately, the type of bridge that is right for you will come down to a few different factors that your dentist will consider to make their final decision. Speak with your dentist about which type of dental bridge is right for the replacement of your tooth or teeth.

Interested in starting your dental bridge process? Learn more about West Mobile Dental Care, located in Mobile, today.

Curious about dental bridges in general? Here's details what dental bridges are exactly.