Offer a natural-looking solution for tooth loss.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges replace missing teeth. They can restore chewing function, enhance your appearance and improve your oral health. A dental bridge consists of crowns (that fit over your natural teeth on either side of the space) and artificial teeth (that “bridge the gap” in your smile).There are different parts that make up a dental bridge:
- Abutments are the structures that support your dental bridge. While the term often refers to natural teeth, it can also refer to tiny connector posts used in dental implant-supported bridges.
- Pontics are the artificial (false) teeth that fill in the gap left behind by missing teeth.
Benefits
Restore chewing and speech function.
Prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into the gap left behind by missing teeth.
Questions
How long does a dental bridge last?
On average, the lifespan of a dental bridge is five to 15 years. Some can last even longer with proper care and maintenance. You may hear dentists call these “permanent bridges.” They’re permanent in the sense that only a dentist can remove them. But they don’t last forever. You’ll still need to replace them when they show signs of wear or damage.
How can I care for my dental bridge?
Caring for a dental bridge is similar to caring for your natural teeth. To keep your bridge in good condition:
- Brush and floss daily.
- Use a nonabrasive fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean underneath your bridge every day using floss threaders or interproximal brushes (tiny brushes made to go between your teeth).
- Avoid extremely hard or chewy foods.
- Don’t chew on ice, pens, pencils or your fingernails.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Dental bridge vs Implants: Which is better?
In general, dental implants last much longer than bridges. Implants also preserve existing bone and reduce the risk of bone loss in the future. However, everyone has unique oral health needs, goals and preferences. To determine which treatment option is best for you, talk to your dentist
