Bridges
Dental bridges, also called fixed partial dentures, are often used to replace missing teeth between existing teeth. The bridge consists of two or more crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap (these are called the abutment teeth) and a false tooth/teeth in between (called pontics). Bridges can be made from multiple materials including porcelain, zirconia, gold, alloys, or a combination of these materials. Bridges can also be done on dental implants. There are many factors in determining what material should be used, and Dr. Goring will work with you in determining the best option for you.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
With the advent of dental implants some people may question if bridges are still a relevant treatment option. While dental implants are often a great option, there are still many benefits to dental bridges:
- They restore your smile and chewing ability
- Often cheaper than dental implants
- In some cases they are more aesthetic than a dental implant
- Faster than a dental implant
- Provide a fixed and long lasting replacement for missing teeth
Types of Dental Bridges
There are three main types of dental bridges:
- Traditional bridges involve creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between. Traditional bridges are the most common type of bridge and are most commonly made from gold, porcelain fused to metal, or zirconia.
- Cantilever bridges are used when there is not a tooth on each side of the missing tooth. This is not very common any more and is not recommended in the back of the mouth where it can put too much force on other teeth and damage them. Sometimes in the front of the mouth a cantilever bridge may be recommended to replace a smaller tooth.
- Maryland bonded bridges (also called a resin-bonded bridge or a Maryland bridge) are normally made of porcelain or porcelain fused to metal. Metal or porcelain wings, often on just one side of the bridge, are bonded to your existing teeth. This allows for minimal reduction of tooth structure but can only be used in select cases. Dr. Goring can help determine if this option would be best for you.
What Is the Process for Getting a Dental Bridge?
Once the type of bridge to be used has been determined, the abutment teeth are prepared. Preparation requires reduction of the tooth structure on these teeth to allow for the bridge material to seat over them. Next, impressions of the teeth are made for the lab to use in fabricating the bridge. Dr. Goring will then make a temporary bridge to wear while the final bridge is being made. The temporary bridge is important because it helps protect the teeth. Sometimes a temporary bridge may be used for an extended period of time before final impressions are made for the final bridge. This is usually done when Dr. Goring needs to sculpt the gum tissue to allow for a better aesthetic result. Depending on the type of bridge and certain circumstances, Dr. Goring will recommend a try-in of the substructure of the bridge to verify the fit before proceeding to the final bridge. Once the final bridge is ready, typically 2-3 weeks, it will be cemented to the prepared teeth.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
In general it is extremely difficult to predict how long any dental restoration or prosthesis will last due to the many factors that affect the long-term success. The best results for a dental bridge are when the abutment teeth are healthy and the patient has good oral hygiene. If the abutment teeth are compromised by being root canal treated or the patient has a high cavity rate, then the long-term success will likely be diminished. In general, studies have shown 89% of dental bridges to still be in place at 10 years. At 20 years, the survival rate is about 70%. The most common complications are the need for root canal therapy in an abutment tooth or cavities.
How Do I Care for a Bridge?
The most important way to care for dental bridges is to maintain excellent oral hygiene. For most people this would include brushing twice a day – in the morning after breakfast and at night before bed. Flossing is a little more challenging around dental bridges and requires a special threading device to get the floss under the bridge. Alternately, a product called super floss that is stiff at one end can be used to thread under the bridge for flossing. A Waterpik device is also a great option to help with cleaning around the bridge. Certain patients that are at higher risk for cavities may require a more rigorous oral hygiene program that Dr. Goring would outline specific to that patient. In patients that have grinding or clenching habits, it may be recommended to have a night guard made to help protect the teeth and dental bridge.
