Millions of Americans suffer from tooth loss for many reasons, some of which include poor dental hygiene or injury. It’s vital for missing teeth to be replaced because the gap left by a missing tooth can put more strain on the surrounding teeth. A gap could also affect an individual’s bite because over time the surrounding teeth can lean in and alter the way the upper and lower teeth bite together. Also, gaps provide space for food to get trapped, which over time will lead to gum disease if not properly treated.

For these reasons, it’s important for individuals suffering from tooth loss to seek a dentist and discuss their treatment options, one of which may be a dental bridge.

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is defined as a bridge for missing teeth because they bridge the gap left from a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. A dental bridge consists of two crowns, one on each side of the gap, and a missing tooth or teeth, depending on how many teeth were lost. The two crowned teeth are considered abutment teeth, which can be natural or dental implants. The false tooth or teeth that are placed between the abutment teeth are called pontics.

Are There Different Types of Dental Bridges?

Depending on an individual’s case, a dentist will choose a specific type of bridge to best treat the gap. There are four types of bridges a dentist may choose from, which are:

• Traditional Dental Bridge – most dentists use these types of bridges to treat patients. These have one or more pontics, which are secured by dental crowns. These bridges can be used anywhere in the mouth as long as natural teeth are surrounding the gap.
• Maryland Dental Bridge – this bridge has a metal or porcelain frame with a tooth in the front and wings that attach to the surrounding teeth. Because it’s made of composite resin, it’s a low-risk option that looks very realistic. The downside is that sometimes fitting the fake tooth into the gap can be difficult, and dentists may have to cut the surrounding teeth to make more room. This bridge is also more expensive than a traditional dental bridge.
• Cantilever Dental Bridge – this option works best for individuals who only have one natural tooth that could be used as an abutment tooth. The only difference between this option and traditional bridges is that they just have one supporting tooth instead of two. One of the cons is that dentists may have to remove some enamel, just as they do for traditional dental bridges. Also, since there is only one supporting tooth, complications could arise, such as a fractured tooth or a loosened crown.
• Implant-Supported Bridges – these types of bridges are used for individuals who are missing multiple teeth. These can be used for teeth missing next to each other or spaced out throughout the mouth.

At McBride Dental, we offer dental bridges for individuals suffering from one or more missing teeth. We evaluate each individual’s needs and layout the best treatment options.

San Diego Dental Bridge Dentistry

At McBride Dental, we offer restorative treatments which include dental bridges that can be placed on in one visit. Because we utilize CEREC technology at our practice, our patients are able to leave our office with new dental bridges after a single appointment with us. We create tooth replacements that help restore our patients’ smile, leaving them with healthy, fully functioning teeth. If you are suffering from tooth loss and are seeking treatment, call us at 760-471-1003 to schedule an appointment today.