Various materials go into the fabrication of dental bridges in general dentistry. They also have support structures that hold them in place. For example, a conventional bridge gets its support from two teeth on either side of the gap that it fills. In contrast, dentists use cantilever bridges to fill an open-ended gap. This type of bridge only has the support of one natural tooth because the other end of the gap lacks a second tooth. Other bridges stay in place with the help of implant-supported crowns or metal frames.
The nature and structure of a bridge are just two of several factors that determine its lifespan. In the following sections, you will find out how durable a dental bridge can be.
A dentist will recommend a dental bridge to fill a gap that results from several missing teeth. In most cases, the bridge uses the teeth on either side of the gap for support. Getting fitted for this type of bridge involves the following steps:
Fitting an implant-supported bridge is similar, except that the supporting crowns sit on dental implants instead of teeth. This makes the implant-supported bridge the strongest and most stable option for replacing teeth. Here is how the underlying support of a bridge determines its lifespan.
An implant-supported bridge is highly durable and can remain in excellent shape for over 10 years. A bridge that relies on a single tooth (cantilever) or a metal framework (Maryland) has a lifespan of between five and seven years.
In the same vein, a dental bridge with metal crowns is more durable than one with ceramic or composite crowns. This means that there is a tradeoff to make between aesthetics and durability. Still, porcelain crowns on a dental bridge can last for more than a decade.
A few deliberate measures can improve a patient’s overall lifestyle. For starters, excellent oral hygiene prevents most problems that could cause a dental bridge to fail. A healthy diet is just as important when it comes to keeping the teeth and bridge in good condition.
Routine dental visits also contribute to the long life of a dental bridge and the remaining teeth. Dentists use these visits to keep tabs on their patients’ oral health, so they can catch and correct any problems early on. They will also monitor the structure of the dental bridge, making repairs and adjustments if the need arises.
Let us take a look at some of the answers to questions you might have about dental bridges:
The process of replacing lost teeth with dental bridges can be completed in as little as two weeks. The process requires two trips to the clinic. The first visit is used to prepare the patient’s teeth for the crowns that will be used for abutments and to take an impression of their teeth. The second visit involves cementing the abutments to the patient’s teeth.
Virtually anyone can replace missing teeth with a dental bridge. The installation of the oral prosthetic does not involve any surgical procedures, so anyone with missing teeth typically has the option of exploring bridges. Bridges are typically recommended when a person has a few missing teeth next to each other.
Dental bridges are designed to last up to 15 years with good oral hygiene. Patients who get bridges should also take extra steps to avoid things that can damage their oral prosthetic, like biting down on hard things
No. Traditional bridges are anchored down on the two teeth closest to the gap, but other types of bridges do not need to be cemented to multiple teeth. For example, cantilever bridges are anchored on a tooth next to the gap.
Our dentist can restore your bite and smile with a tooth replacement option that works for you. Book an appointment to find out if dental bridges would be a good fit.
Request an appointment here: https://www.aboutdentalcare.com or call About Dental Care at 4353590147 for an appointment in our St. George office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bridges in St. George, UT.
A dental bridge can be used to replace one or a few missing teeth. As the name suggests, these oral restorations bridge gaps between teeth, restoring their appearance and functionality. Dental bridges are customized for each patient to ensure the restoration matches the size and color of the rest of their teeth.Dental bridges are made…
If you've suffered a broken or damaged tooth, you may want to consider a dental crown to restore your damaged smile. It's important, however, to know when your crown is getting worn and when it is time to get it replaced so that you can keep your smile looking its best. Proper maintenance and care…
A dental crown is often the best option to repair the affected area when a patient is dealing with severe tooth damage or decay. Dental crowns can also protect weak or brittle teeth, improve the patient's appearance, and correct many other dental issues. For many people, this type of treatment helps to both restore and…
You probably know that a dental crown is a treatment option at your dentist’s office. You may not, however, understand when this is a necessary or viable procedure. It is helpful to understand what a crown can do for you and when it may be the right way to correct a dental or cosmetic issue.Different…
An assessment for dental veneers can tell your dentist if you need these restorations. Veneers are customizable and thin. Each shell can correct mild to moderate dental issues. Here are the details to know when your dentist may suggest dental veneers.Even if other dental restorations can repair these mild types of damage, dental veneers are…
Dental veneers are an investment. Getting these restorations is a significant decision. The permanence of having these shells on your teeth needs commitment. Knowing how to make these restorations last longer can help motivate you to care for them even more. Here are some advice and tips on how to make your dental veneers last…