Health Manipulation

If you have missing teeth, a gap will form. To fill in or bridge this gap, a bridge is created with crowns to anchor each tooth on both sides. These anchoring teeth are referred to as abutment teeth. False teeth are used to replace the missing teeth, which is referred to as a pontic, and is created using porcelain, gold, alloy or a combination of any of these materials.

There are various types of dental bridges that you can choose from, according to what you need.

1. Traditional Bridges - This is the most commonly used type of dental bridges. A crown is created for the tooth or dental implant on both sides of the missing tooth, and a pontic is placed in between. They are made from ceramics or porcelain fused to metal.

2. Cantilever Bridges - This type is not so common anymore. It is used when the available teeth for support are on one side only. It is not recommended for use in the back of the mouth as it puts too much pressure on the other teeth, and eventually damages them.

3. Maryland Bonded Bridges - They are also known as Resin-Bonded Bridges or Maryland Bridges. The metal or porcelain framework is winged on each side of the bridge, and is secured to your nearest teeth.

Why Do you Need to Have Dental Bridges?

Losing a tooth also means losing the ability to chew your food properly. Furthermore, when the missing tooth is on the front, your smile is affected. Since your teeth are no longer balanced, your bite is no longer distributed properly. A space is also formed in between the remaining teeth. As a result, your remaining teeth will drift out of position.

Dental bridges allow you to chew your food properly again. They help restore your bite by distributing the force evenly. Since bridges fill in the gap between your teeth with an artificial tooth, you get to have a better smile. A smile affects the way you look significantly and a good set of teeth makes your smile perfect.

Dental bridges also restore your ability to speak properly. When you lose a tooth, there are some words that do not sound proper, even when you pronounce them correctly. Lastly, since the space in between your teeth is filled in, the remaining teeth will be prevented from drifting out of position.

Regular brushing and flossing is recommended to prevent plaque and tooth decay that can lead to gum disease and tooth loss. Gargling with mouthwash regularly can also help keep your mouth and teeth stay clean. When properly cared for, bridges can last up to 15 years or longer. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups with a good dentist in Laurel MD will ensure a longer lifespan for your dental bridges.