Our teeth help us crunch healthy foods, form words, and make facial expressions. In fact, you might not even realize how often you use your teeth every day. If you are missing any teeth, it can start to affect both your physical and mental health. Missing teeth can make it difficult or painful to eat, change the way you speak, and make you feel embarrassed about smiling.
Fortunately, there are ways to fill the gap, with dental bridges being one of the most common tooth replacement options. And with four different types of dental bridges, there is bound to be an option that will restore your smile.
Will a Dental Bridge Work for You?
Dental bridges quite literally bridge a gap where one or more teeth are missing. They attach a false tooth called a pontic to the two healthy teeth on either side. Consulting a dentist is the best way to find out if a dental bridge will work for you. They will evaluate several factors to determine if a bridge is the right option.
- How many teeth are missing?
Dental bridges can replace one to four teeth in a row. If you need to replace more than four teeth, you will need full or partial dentures instead.
- Are the abutment teeth healthy?
Since the two anchor teeth will be supporting the false teeth, they must be strong and able to withstand the pressure.
- Which type of bridge is best?
Each type of bridge is different, and one might be better suited for your mouth than others.
- What is your budget?
Some materials can cost more, and dental implants might be a better option if you compare long-term costs.
- What is your timeline?
Most dental bridge procedures can be done relatively quickly, and they do not require long healing times.
The Four Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional Dental Bridges
As the strongest type of dental bridge, traditional bridges are also the most common. The pontics in a standard bridge are supported by dental crowns anchored to the teeth on either side of the gap. Because they are so strong, traditional bridges are the best option for replacing back teeth like molars and premolars.
Implanted Dental Bridges
This newest type of dental bridge is a great option for those whose remaining teeth are too weak to support a standard bridge. Instead of being anchored to your teeth with crowns, the pontics are supported by 2 posts anchored into your jaw on either side of the missing teeth. Implant-supported dental bridges also help you maintain the bone density in your jaw, as the posts mimic a natural tooth root. Implant surgery does require longer healing times, which is an important consideration.
Cantilever Dental Bridges
Rather than attaching the pontic to two teeth, a cantilevered dental bridge only uses one abutment tooth. This is a more affordable option if you’re missing a single tooth, because you’ll only need one crown. However, cantilevered bridges are not as strong as standard bridges. They’re usually only used for missing front teeth, and missing back teeth might need one of the above.
Maryland Dental Bridges
This particular bridge is also known as a resin-bonded bridge. It was one of the first types of dental bridges and was named after the university that popularized the procedure. Instead of crowns, Maryland dental bridges use a metal framework that is worked into the pontic teeth and then bonded to the back of the abutment teeth. This method helps to preserve the natural teeth. But again, the structure of this restoration is not as strong as a standard bridge, and therefore it is only suitable for missing front teeth.
Cross Over to the Best Dentist in Flagstaff
If you are looking to bridge the gap in your smile, come to Country Club Dental. We offer amazing dental care at reasonable prices. Dr. Paul Whitney and our staff of dental assistants and hygienists are here to help you get the smile of your dreams. Contact us today to make an appointment.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (3/11/25). Photo by omid armin on Unsplash.
