Many of us are aware that missing teeth can make it difficult to communicate, speak, bite, or even eat. When a tooth is lost, it is vital to contact your dentist about dental replacement options. Dental bridges are used in dentistry to repair missing teeth as well as to construct a bridge that connects nearby teeth. The teeth on each side of a missing tooth are referred to as abutment teeth, and the replacement tooth is referred to as a pontic tooth (false tooth).
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a custom-made tooth replacement, also known as a pontic. It is installed by your dentist between the two teeth. The bridge is attached to your natural teeth on both sides of the gap caused by the missing teeth. Porcelain, gold, alloys, or a combination of these materials are used to create bridges. And they have a similar shape as your real teeth.
What Are the Various Types of Dental Bridges?
Your dentist may propose one of the various types of bridges based on your dental problems and oral health. Let’s take a look at the different types of dental bridges and how they can help you maintain your smile and oral health.
- A traditional bridge is made up of two crowns (sometimes called abutments) that hold the artificial tooth or teeth in place. This is the most frequent type of bridge, and it can be fixed or removable.
- A cantilever bridge just requires one crown for support. This is a less invasive procedure that may be appropriate for people who do not want to remove healthy teeth. The single crown, on the other hand, can function as a lever, increasing the risk of tooth and jaw damage.
- Maryland bridges are less intrusive and more conservative than normal or cantilever bridges. Metal or porcelain frameworks attached to the backs of teeth on either side of the gap act as anchors for the bridge. These bridges can maintain healthy teeth in place, but they are less stable.
- Dental implants serve as anchors for implant-supported bridges. This bridge is more expensive and invasive, but it is also more secure.
Benefits of Dental Bridge
When you lose a tooth or teeth, it can harm your general health in a variety of ways. A dental bridge can help to solve all of these health problems and avoid subsequent consequences. Let’s look at the benefits of getting dental bridges.
- Dental bridges are usually small and light
- Enhances your chewing ability
- Maintains the structure of your face
- It improves your smile
- Protects your natural teeth from shifting out
- It is both comfortable to wear and incredibly effective
- Restores your ability to speak
- When compared to dentures, their durability and stability are far superior.
- It gives you a more appealing appearance because it blends in flawlessly with your actual teeth
- The procedure is less invasive, and they are less expensive than dental implants.
What is the Cost of a Dental Bridge?
The cost of dental bridges is determined by the type of bridge you select:
- Traditional or cantilever bridges range in price from $2,000 to $5,000 for one pontic and a crown for a single abutment tooth.
- Maryland bridges range in price from $1,500 to $2,500 or more for a single pontic with the framework, or wings, attached to the abutment teeth.
- An implant-supported bridge ranges in price from $5,000 to $15,000 for a bridge supported by two dental implants and covering three to four teeth.
We hope this blog has provided you with a better understanding of dental bridges. Contact Whispering Creek Dental if you are looking for the best dental bridge treatments in Sioux City, IA. Book your appointment today.
