Dental Bridge Options
If you or someone you love has been considering a dental bridge, you may be wondering what you need to consider before undergoing the procedure. Here are some options and considerations to take into account when considering a new bridge. If you still have questions after reading below, please don’t hesitate to contact our office to arrange a free consultation with Dr. Zach Teach today!
Am I A Good Candidate for Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges can be used in the mouth as long as the adjacent teeth are strong enough to support the dental bridge. If the adjacent teeth are weak, fractured, or otherwise unable to provide support to a bridge, a dental implant is the state-of-the-art option to replace a single missing tooth, as it does not involve the adjacent teeth.
What Are Fixed Dental Bridges?
A fixed bridge is a bridge that is placed by reducing the adjacent teeth, taking an impression, making a metal framework, and then firing porcelain to the surface to make the porcelain tooth-colored. The bridge is then cemented in the mouth and cannot be removed by the patient.
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What Are Cantilever Dental Bridges?
The difference between a fixed bridge and a cantilever bridge is that a cantilever bridge is only attached to one abutment tooth. These bridges are only used in certain limited situations where there cannot be too much stress on the pontic (the false tooth).
What Are Resin-Bonded Bridges?
The benefit of a resin-bonded bridge is that the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth are not reduced to pegs; there is typically minimal or no reduction necessary. The difference between a resin-bonded and a fixed bridge thus lies in the support of the adjacent teeth.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
A dental bridge placed properly in the mouth can last for one to two decades, if not longer, as long as the patient takes proper care of the teeth. There is a persistent misunderstanding that a dental bridge cannot decay or break down. Proper home care, keeping the adjacent teeth clean, and flossing underneath the bridge are necessary to extend the length of that bridge.
If you or someone you love are in need of a dental bridge, contact our experienced Buffalo dentists today to schedule a free consultation. We welcome the opportunity to put a new smile on your face!
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