Understanding dental bridges and things to consider before getting a dental bridge

Understanding dental bridges and things to consider before getting a dental bridge

Dental bridges are fixed dental restorations designed to replace one or more missing teeth. These prosthetic devices literally bridge the gap created by missing teeth. A traditional bridge consists of artificial teeth supported by adjacent natural teeth or implants. Modern dental bridges are crafted from materials like porcelain, ceramic, or composite materials that closely match natural teeth, ensuring a seamless appearance.

Types of Dental Bridges

Several options exist when considering dental bridges:

  1. Traditional bridges: The most common type, involving crowns placed on teeth adjacent to the gap with pontics suspended between them.
  2. Cantilever bridges:  Used when supporting teeth exist on only one side of the gap, though this design places additional stress on the supporting tooth.
  3. Maryland bridges: A conservative option using metal or porcelain frameworks bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth. While requiring minimal alteration to surrounding teeth, these may not be as durable as traditional bridges.
  4. Implant-supported bridges: An advanced option where the implant bridge is supported by dental implants rather than natural teeth, offering superior stability and bone preservation.

Benefits of Choosing Dental Bridges

  • Restoration of proper chewing and speaking ability.
  • Prevention of remaining teeth from shifting position.
  • Maintenance of facial structure.
  • Distribution of bite forces properly across remaining teeth.
  • Enhancement of smile aesthetics and confidence.

Benefits of choosing dental bridges

An implant bridge offers additional benefits, including superior stability and prevention of jawbone deterioration that commonly occurs after tooth loss.

The Dental Bridge Procedure

The process of getting a tooth bridge typically involves multiple dental visits:

  1. Initial examination and preparation of abutment teeth.
  2. Creation of detailed impressions.
  3. Placement of a temporary bridge while the permanent one is fabricated.
  4. Final fitting and adjustment of the permanent restoration.

Professional dental practices offering dental bridges ensure precise fit and natural appearance through advanced technology and techniques.

Important Considerations Before Getting a Dental Bridge

  • Oral health condition: The health of teeth and gums plays a significant role in determining success. Supporting teeth must be strong and healthy enough to provide adequate support.
  • Longevity and durability: With proper care, traditional dental bridges typically last 5–15 years, while an implant bridge may last significantly longer, making it a potentially better longterm investment.
  • Maintenance requirements: Careful oral hygiene procedures, such as specific flossing methods and routine professional cleanings, are necessary for maintaining dental bridges.
  • Cost factors: The investment in dental bridges varies based on bridge type, materials used, and additional procedures required. Many dental insurance plans offer partial coverage.
  • Impact on adjacent teeth: Traditional bridges require modification of healthy adjacent teeth, potentially affecting their longterm health, while implant bridges preserve natural teeth. 

Caring for Dental Bridges

The longevity of a tooth bridge largely depends on maintenance.

  • Thorough twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste.
  • Daily cleaning beneath the bridge using floss threaders or water flossers.
  • Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings.
  • Avoiding excessive force from hard foods or teeth grinding.

Implant-Supported Bridges: A Superior Option

An implant-supported bridge is particularly beneficial for those with multiple missing teeth. This type of bridge does not rely on existing teeth for support, making it ideal for patients with sufficient jawbone density. Though requiring implant surgery and a longer recovery period, these restorations provide natural-looking and comfortable replacement with enhanced longevity.

Wilmot Family Dentistry: Trusted care for dental bridges

Dental bridges serve as a transformative solution for those dealing with tooth loss. Whether it’s the traditional tooth bridge or implant bridge, the benefits are both functional and aesthetic. When considering dental bridges in Tucson, factors like material, provider expertise, and longterm care are paramount. For those seeking dental bridges Tucson, Wilmot Family Dentistry provides expert care tailored to individual needs. Advanced techniques, high-quality materials, and a patient-focused approach ensure a comfortable and seamless experience. From traditional dental bridges to modern implant bridge solutions, every restoration is crafted to enhance both function and aesthetics.

Book a consultation today and experience professional dental care that prioritizes longterm oral health.

tiwi P.
Very accommodating and professional staff! Excellent care, thank you.
cindy T.
I am petrified at going to the dentist. Anxiety is unbelievable. Lizette was so kind and supportive with all my questions and anxiety from the minute she picked me up from the front. Dr Lyman was great. Gentle, kind and let me know what was going on and what I needed to do and when. Definitely going to be my dentist from now on. I have a plan thanks to Dr Lyman and Lizette. Thank you!!
Landocups
They’re awesome. All the staff is kind, respectful and professional. They always take care of myself, my wife and even my 4 year old has always felt comfortable enough there to be excited to go to the dentist now! Definitely recommend.
Coralice N.
Grateful to be back on track with a plan of care. Everything was explained to me clearly with upfront pricing and I appreciated having more than one option.
Cory C.
I came into wilmot family dentistry a little nervous at the state of my teeth and everyone was very kind. And the procedure was very easy. I felt welcomed and I’m excited to go back.
Bertie Alicia S.
Caring and knowledgeable. Saw me not being his patient. I had a dental emergency and saw me same day I called. I appreciate his concern for people. My own dentist wouldn't see me even when I mentioned it was an emergency. She said she was busy all day. Thank you Wilmot Family Dentistry.
Al F.
Great Hygienist, friendly staff. Highly recommend for your dental needs.
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Nancy P.
Thank you for the wonderful service. I went in for teeth cleaning and then just had a check and it was wonderful to go to someone that you can trust. Thank you.
Douglas D.
Very nice office staff Dentist is very nice and explains everything, answers all questions
PETE O.
AWESOME WORK—-SUPER GOOD STAFF—-U OF A FRIENDLY—!!!!! MISCHELL WAS SUPER AWESOME---THANK YOU !!!
Tyrone S.
Dental hygienist was great! The best deep cleaning to date. No pain after numbing medication wore off like my previous deep cleaning nightmare.
Maria M.
Reynaldo K. C.
I love everyone at this practice they’re so lovely. Highly recommend.
tim P.
The team at Wilmot Family Dentistry got me in quickly to repair a broken tooth. Dr Lyman explained my situation thoroughly, and completed my procedure painlessly. The Asst. Perla was especially kind and skilled. Glad to have found this group!!
Cody E.
Possum visit today really appreciate the human side of it!!
Jorge R.
Great service, very professional and caring staff, Good cleaning. Thank you very much 👍. 👋 .
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Sharon G.
Great experience Hygienist very gentle Very Professional Highly recommend
maria L.
Dr. Lyman and all of his staff are fantastic. I originally found his practice when I needed a GOOD family dentist for my children but what I got was EXCELLENCE. I called him in a panic late last year after being told devastating news by another dental staff/office and he fit me in as an emergency right away. Immediately, Dr. Lyman and all of his assistants/techs/staff provided reassurance, hope, and an excellent plan for my care. I recently lost my dental benefits coverage and this dental office is so professional and nurturing that I will continue as a self-pay client because the ease and quality of care I'm receiving is worth it. Thank you Wilmot Family Dentistry!!
Kim R.
New to the area and had tooth sensitivity, they were able to see me right away, fixed the issue at the same appointment, professional and helpful and they take my insurance, what's not to like?!
Brad M.
Michelle was an excellent hygienist! Easily the best one I’ve ever had (I’m in my 60s, so I’ve had a few). Dr. Lyman was kind, friendly and spoke to me, not at me, about what was going on and made suggestions on how I could change my preventative dental care going forward. No up-sales, no pressure, such a kind and caring approach. Very happy with my new dental team.
Kim C.
Dr. Lyman and his staff are very professional and polite. He always takes the time to check in on me puts me at ease because it’s not my favorite place to go but I know I am in good hands. A shout out to Melissa she is amazing. Kim C
Linda B.
The folks at Wilmot Family Dentistry are courteous and welcoming and at the same time professional. Thank you to Dr. Lyman and Allison for the hands-on care and to all those who provided preparatory and administrative services.