Dental Bridges: Restoring Your Smile and Oral Health

Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between adjacent teeth. Typically composed of artificial teeth (pontics) supported by dental crowns or implants, bridges restore the smile's function and aesthetics. They work by anchoring the pontic or pontics to the natural teeth or implants adjacent to the gap, creating a seamless restoration that restores chewing ability, speech clarity, and facial aesthetics. By filling in spaces left by missing teeth, dental bridges also help maintain proper tooth alignment and prevent dental issues associated with tooth loss. 

Who Is a Candidate for Dental Bridges? 

• Individuals missing one or more teeth need healthy adjacent teeth or dental implants to support the bridge. 

• Patients with adequate bone density and healthy gums to support the bridge structure 

• Those seeking a non-surgical or minimally invasive solution for tooth replacement 

• Individuals with realistic expectations regarding the appearance and function of the dental bridge 

• Patients are committed to maintaining good oral hygiene to ensure the bridge's longevity. 

• Individuals with no untreated dental issues such as decay or gum disease that could compromise the success of the bridge 

Types of Dental Bridges 

Traditional Dental Bridges 

Traditional dental bridges are the most common type and are typically used to replace one or more missing teeth. These bridges consist of artificial teeth, known as pontics, supported by dental crowns placed on the adjacent natural teeth. Traditional bridges are ideal when the adjacent teeth are strong and healthy enough to support the bridge structure. Contact us today! 

Cantilever Bridges 

Cantilever bridges are similar to traditional bridges but are anchored to only one adjacent tooth instead of two. This makes them suitable for replacing missing teeth towards the back of the mouth, where only one neighboring tooth is available for support. Cantilever bridges provide a conservative option for tooth replacement but may exert more force on the supporting tooth. 

Maryland Bridges 

Maryland bridges, also known as resin-bonded bridges, use metal or porcelain wings bonded to the back of adjacent teeth to support the bridge. Unlike traditional bridges, Maryland bridges do not require neighboring teeth to be extensively prepared with dental crowns. This minimally invasive option is often used for replacing missing front teeth but may not be as durable as traditional bridges. 

Implant-Supported Bridges 

Implant-supported bridges are considered the gold standard in tooth replacement and offer unmatched stability and longevity. These bridges are supported by dental implants, titanium posts surgically implanted into the jawbone instead of adjacent natural teeth. Implant-supported bridges provide a reliable solution for replacing multiple missing teeth or full arches and help preserve jawbone density. 

The Dental Bridge Procedure 

Initial Consultation 

The journey begins with an initial consultation with our dentist at Morristown Oral Surgery & Implantology Associates. During this appointment, the dentist will evaluate the patient's oral health, discuss treatment options, and determine if a dental bridge is the best solution for replacing the missing tooth or teeth. 

Treatment Planning 

If a dental bridge is deemed appropriate, the dentist in Morristown, NJ, will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to the patient's needs. This plan may involve selecting the type of bridge (traditional, cantilever, Maryland, or implant-supported), determining the optimal materials, and scheduling the treatment appointments. 

Preparing the Abutment Teeth 

Before the bridge can be fabricated, the adjacent teeth (abutment teeth) need to be prepared to support the bridge. This involves removing a small amount of enamel from the abutment teeth to accommodate the dental crowns that anchor the bridge. Impressions of the prepared teeth are then taken to create precise molds for the bridge fabrication. 

Fabrication of the Dental Bridge 

The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians use them to custom-craft the dental bridge. The bridge is fabricated using high-quality materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or a combination of materials to match the color and appearance of natural teeth closely. 

Temporary Bridge Placement 

While the permanent bridge is being fabricated, the patient may receive a temporary one to protect the prepared teeth and maintain proper alignment. This temporary bridge, usually made of acrylic, is designed to be worn until the permanent bridge is ready for placement. 

Fitting and Adjustment 

Once the permanent bridge is completed, the patient returns to the dentist for the fitting and adjustment appointment. The bridge is carefully checked for fit, comfort, and aesthetics, and any necessary changes are made to ensure proper fit and bite alignment. 

Final Placement 

Once the bridge has been fitted and adjusted to the patient's satisfaction, it is permanently cemented or bonded into place using dental adhesive. The dentist ensures that the bridge blends seamlessly with the surrounding natural teeth and functions properly for biting and chewing. 

Post-Treatment Care 

After the bridge is placed, the dentist provides instructions on how to properly care for and maintain it. This may include practicing good oral hygiene habits, avoiding hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge, and attending regular dental check-ups to monitor the bridge's condition and overall oral health. 

Dental bridges are versatile restorative solutions that replace missing teeth and restore the natural beauty and functionality of the smile. Visit Morristown Oral Surgery & Implantology Associates at 290 Madison Avenue, Ste 1A, Morristown, NJ 07960, or call (973) 538-5338 to learn more about dental bridges and discover how they can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.