5 Types of Dental Bridges: Which type is best for me?
Missing teeth can impact your bite, your appearance, and your confidence. Thankfully, dental bridges are a trusted solution to restore your smile and prevent oral health complications caused by tooth loss. If you’re searching for options and want expert advice, our Dentist in Hesperia CA can guide you in choosing the right solution based on your needs.
Dental bridges work by filling the gap left by missing teeth and preventing the surrounding teeth from shifting. They also help maintain your facial shape, improve speech, and support proper chewing function.
There are several types of dental bridges, each suited for different situations. Here’s a breakdown of the five most common types.
1. Traditional dental bridge
This is the most common type of bridge and is ideal for patients who have healthy teeth on both sides of a missing tooth gap.
The process involves placing crowns on the adjacent teeth to support one or more artificial teeth (pontics) in between. These bridges are non-removable and require good oral hygiene for longevity.
Traditional bridges are made from materials such as metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, E-max, or zirconia. Porcelain is especially popular due to its natural tooth-like appearance.
While durable, these bridges require avoiding hard foods that could damage the crown or surrounding teeth. Consult a Hesperia dentist to determine if this type is the right fit for you.
2. Maryland dental bridge
A Maryland bridge is a conservative option often used to replace a single front tooth.
It features a metal or ceramic framework with “wings” that are bonded to the back of adjacent teeth. This eliminates the need to grind down neighboring teeth.
It’s an excellent solution for younger patients or those who are not candidates for implants yet. However, it’s not ideal for molars due to the high pressure of chewing.
Also, the metal framework may slightly discolour surrounding teeth over time. Your Dentist in Hesperia may recommend this as a temporary or intermediate solution.
3. Cantilever dental bridge
This type of bridge is supported by only one tooth adjacent to the gap.
It’s typically used for front teeth where less chewing pressure is applied. A cantilever bridge is less invasive and often more cost-effective.
However, since it depends on just one supporting tooth, it’s not suitable for everyone. The abutment tooth must be strong and healthy to support the bridge without strain.
This option may be appropriate if there’s only one adjacent tooth or limited space for other restorations.
4. Porcelain dental bridge
Porcelain bridges offer a beautiful, natural look, making them a popular option for replacing missing front teeth.
They consist of crowns on each side of the gap and a lifelike porcelain pontic in between. These bridges help restore function, prevent shifting teeth, and protect the gums.
Porcelain is stain-resistant and blends well with natural enamel. With proper care, these bridges can last 15 to 20 years.
If you’re not ready for implants but want a permanent solution that looks great, a porcelain bridge is a solid choice.
5. Hybrid bridge (All-on-4 or All-on-6)
Hybrid bridges replace all teeth in one arch using dental implants as anchors. Typically, four or six implants are strategically placed in the jawbone to support a full-arch prosthesis.
This method offers excellent stability, improved bite function, and long-term results. It also preserves bone structure and avoids the inconvenience of removable dentures.
A full-arch bridge is ideal for patients with significant tooth loss or failing dentition. It provides a fixed, comfortable, and aesthetic solution that functions like natural teeth.
Why might you need a dental bridge ?
Dental bridges are more than just cosmetic. They offer several functional and health benefits, including:
- Restoring your smile
- Helping you chew and speak properly
- Maintaining the natural shape of your face
- Preventing surrounding teeth from drifting out of place
- Distributing bite force evenly
- Enhancing oral health and function
When to contact your dentist
You should contact your dental provider if:
- Your bridge feels loose or shows visible cracks
- You experience pain when chewing
- Your gums become swollen, sensitive, or start bleeding
- You notice increased tooth sensitivity
Prompt care helps prevent further complications and keeps your dental bridge functioning properly.
Ready to restore your smile?
If you’re missing teeth, there’s no need to settle for discomfort or embarrassment. A dental bridge can transform your smile and your confidence.
At Maple Dental, our caring and experienced team can help you find the best solution. Whether you need a traditional bridge, a front-tooth replacement, or a full-arch restoration, our Dentist in Hesperia CA is here for you.
Call us today at 760-949-7274 to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a healthier, complete smile.
