Using fixed dental bridges to replace missing teeth
The dental team at Redmond Smiles helps Redmond, Washington, area patients with a wide range of dental concerns, including tooth loss and extraction. When permanent adult teeth are missing, it can impact the appearance, function, and overall health of the smile. Dr. Colby Eckland and his team can help with the fabrication and placement of dental bridges. Let’s look closely at this fixed dental prosthesis to restore the smile!
What are dental bridges?
Dr. Eckland describes the dental bridge as a prosthetic device that is used to close the gap created by one or several missing natural teeth. There are many different types available, including:
- Traditional bridges. Traditional bridges are the most commonly used variety of bridges. They consist of two crowns placed on each side of the gap with an artificial tooth (pontic) in between. These crowns act as anchors for the pontic and are cemented onto the natural teeth adjacent to the gap.
- Cantilever bridges. Similar to traditional bridges, cantilever bridges use an artificial tooth to fill the gap caused by a missing tooth. However, they only have one crown as an anchor on one side of the gap rather than two. This type of bridge is usually used when only one natural tooth is present and adjacent to the gap.
- Maryland bridges. Also referred to as resin-bonded bridges, our Maryland bridges are fabricated from a metal or porcelain framework with wings on each side that are bonded onto the back of the natural teeth around the gap. This type of bridge is more conservative and less invasive than traditional bridges, as it does not require any crowns to be placed on the natural teeth.
- Implant-supported bridges. Our implant-supported bridges are very similar to traditional ones, but instead of using natural teeth as anchors, they use dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. This type of bridge is the most stable and long-lasting option for those replacing missing teeth.
Why should I consider a dental bridge for tooth loss?
Dental bridges are a reliable and popular choice for replacing missing teeth, as they can help improve the appearance, function, and health of the teeth and gums. Missing teeth affect one’s ability to speak, chew food properly, and maintain proper oral hygiene. Bridges restore these functions and prevent further oral health issues, including the shifting of the surrounding teeth.
Who can I contact to determine if dental bridges are the right fixed dental prosthetic for me?
Dr. Colby Eckland provides this and many other tooth replacement options for our local patients, including dental implants and dentures. If tooth loss has occurred, restoring the smile as soon as possible is always recommended. Call (425) 584-1192 to request a visit with our team today! Our clinic is located at 15965 NE 85th Street in Suite #201 and is open to new and established patients and families in and around the Redmond, Washington, community.