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Dental bridges have been used for many years as a common solution for missing teeth. A dental bridge does what its name suggests. It literally “bridges” the gap between a missing tooth or teeth and your other permanent teeth using an artificial tooth.
In addition to replacing your missing tooth or teeth, dental bridges are considered due to their numerous advantages. Let’s explore the different types of dental bridges available in Eugene, Oregon, and why you should consider them.
Types of Dental Bridges Available
Dental bridges have many types, and the type of bridge your dentists recommend to you depends on your oral health goals. The four main types of dental bridges are as follows:
- Traditional Type – This is the most common type of dental bridge recommended for people with healthy natural teeth on both sides of missing teeth. It consists of an artificial tooth or pontics between dental crowns or caps on both sides.
Your dentists bond the dental crowns to your natural teeth surrounding the gap and then place artificial teeth (pontics) in place of lost teeth.
- Cantilever Type – This type is similar to the traditional type, but unlike the traditional type, cantilever dental bridges have the crown on one end, not both.
The cantilever type is used when a patient has natural teeth on one side of the gap. It’s pertinent to mention that due to their design, cantilever bridges are not considered as strong as traditional bridges.
- Maryland Type – This type uses metal wings instead of crowns to secure the bridge. Since they are not strong enough to withstand the chewing forces of back teeth, they are only used for patients who have lost their front teeth.
- Implant-supported Bridge–These bridges are similar to traditional bridges,but they rest atop a dental implant – small threaded posts that replace the missing teeth roots – instead of a natural tooth.
These types of bridges are used when an individual has three or more missing teeth in a row.
Reasons to Consider Dental Bridges
The following are some of the many reasons to consider dental bridges.
#1To Restore Your Smile
Dental bridges are one of the best ways to improve your dental aesthetics. By filling out the gap caused by a missing tooth or teeth, dental bridges restore the natural appearance of your smile.
Dental bridges blend with your existing teeth to create a harmonious and complete dental arch, ultimately boosting your self-confidence and making you feel more satisfied with your smile.
#2 To Maintain Your Facial Structure
A missing tooth or teeth can change the structure of your face and jawbone. When a tooth is missing, the jawbone begins to deteriorate and shrink, giving your face an asymmetric or lopsided look.
Dental bridges prevent such shifts and thereby help maintain the integrity of your facial structure.
#3 To Improve the Ability to Chew and Speak
Missing teeth can affect your ability to chew. You may also face trouble pronouncing certain words due to impaired ability to articulate certain sounds.
Dental bridges can restore your ability to chew comfortably and speak clearly.
#4 To Distribute Bite Force
The absence of a tooth or teeth can lead to improper alignment during chewing or biting, resulting in an increased risk of chips or cracks in the remaining teeth.
Dental bridges evenly distribute the bite force and prevent potential damage to the existing teeth.
Dental Bridges in Eugene, Oregon
If you think you are a candidate for dental bridges, consider visiting our board-certified family dentist Dr. Ari Binder for a thorough evaluation. Our family dentist will perform a comprehensive examination to determine if you are a candidate for dental bridges. They will also assess your oral health and recommend the right type of dental bridges for you. If dental bridges are not right for you, he may recommend alternative options like partial denturesor dental implants to fill in the gap created by missing teeth or teeth.
Our family dentist caters to the oral and dental needs of patients of all ages, from children to older adults.
To set up a consultation with our family dentist, callus today at (541) 689-1645 or fill out our online appointment request form.
