Are you missing one or more teeth and searching for a solution to restore what you’ve lost? At Advanced Dental Health, we build expertly designed dental bridges that blend seamlessly with the natural smile and enable you to speak, bite, and smile confidently.
Dental bridges replace one missing tooth or several consecutive missing teeth. A bridge is either fixed or removable; this is decided based on the patient’s needs. Most patients opt for an implant-secured dental bridge because it offers one of the most natural-looking, stable solutions for missing teeth. However, traditional dental bridges are an excellent alternative for patients who cannot receive dental implants.
We offer a full range of beautiful, long-lasting solutions for patients who are missing teeth. Our cutting-edge technology and high-level training allow us to craft beautiful restorations that we design with your needs in mind.
Through expert diagnosis, technology-based design, and treatment planning, our team can provide the highest level of dental care to help restore lost teeth. Visit our dental office to discover if a traditional or implant-secured dental bridge is right for you.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridge
Traditionally, a dental bridge is an artificial tooth secured by dental crowns placed on opposite sides of the tooth. A traditional dental bridge only restores the visible parts of the tooth. An implant-supported dental bridge uses dental implants, which fuse with the jaw bone. Dental implants replace both the root of the tooth and the visible portion of the tooth, making it a natural-looking, stable solution for missing teeth.
In most cases, patients must have adequate healthy bone structure to undergo the dental implant procedure. Drs. Izadi and Rafat will evaluate the condition of the teeth, jaw, and bone structure to determine if you are an ideal candidate for dental implants.
Traditional Vs. Implant-Supported Bridges
One of the main advantages of traditional bridges is that they are usually more affordable than implant-supported bridges. Traditional bridges also require less time to complete, as they can typically be placed in just a few appointments with the dentist. Additionally, traditional bridges can be a good option for patients who are not good candidates for dental implants due to bone loss in the jaw or other health concerns.
However, traditional bridges do have some drawbacks as well. One of the main concerns with traditional bridges is that they require the natural teeth to be shaved down to place the crowns. This can weaken the natural teeth and make them more susceptible to decay or damage in the future. Traditional bridges also only last for about 5-15 years on average, meaning that they may need to be replaced multiple times over the course of a patient’s lifetime.
On the other hand, implant-supported bridges offer a more permanent solution to missing teeth. Implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. Once the implants have healed, a custom-made bridge is attached, providing a secure and natural-looking replacement for the missing teeth. Implant-supported bridges can be a great option for patients who have lost multiple teeth or are looking for a more stable and long-lasting solution.
One of the main benefits of implant-supported bridges is that they help preserve the jawbone’s health. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone can deteriorate over time. Implants help to stimulate the bone and prevent this deterioration, which can help to maintain the shape of the face and prevent further tooth loss. Implant-supported bridges also do not require the natural teeth to be altered, so they are a more conservative option than traditional bridges.
Implant-supported bridges do have some drawbacks as well. They are typically more expensive than traditional bridges, as the process involves surgery and the cost of the implants themselves. Implants also require significant healing time before the final bridge can be attached, which can extend the overall treatment time. Additionally, some patients may not be good candidates for implants if they have insufficient bone density in the jaw or other health concerns.
Benefits of A Dental Bridge
There are numerous types of dental bridges, each offering its respective benefits. The main goal of a dental bridge is to restore missing teeth and give patients a stable, beautiful smile. In addition to this, a dental bridge can also:
- Restore Speech. When the teeth are lost, patients may have a difficult time speaking. With a dental bridge, patients can speak confidently again.
- Improve oral health. When the teeth are lost, the remaining teeth shift to fill the space. Replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge can prevent shifting teeth.
- Enhance your facial features. Missing teeth can often lead to sunken cheeks and facial sagging, which causes patients to appear older than they are. Replacing missing teeth can give the face the volume it needs to appear youthful.
Dental Bridge FAQs
How long does a dental bridge normally last?
On average, if you take good care of it, a traditional dental bridge lasts 5-15 years, or even longer. An implant-supported bridge can be a lifelong solution for missing teeth.
How can I clean under a dental bridge?
For optimum care, we recommend using a water pick. You can use super floss and other solutions, but a water pick is an easy and effective way to ensure you clean it properly.
Does a dental bridge feel natural?
An implant-supported bridge should feel natural. If your normal teeth were weak or had cavities and other oral health issues, it may even feel better than an implant-supported bridge. It takes longer to adjust to a traditional dental bridge, but it still feels natural with a bit more time.
Schedule An Appointment
Would you like to learn more about how dental bridges can enhance your natural smile and restore missing teeth? Visit our team at Advanced Dental Health for a restorative consultation. We combine cutting-edge technology and advanced training to deliver personalized solutions for patients who have lost teeth. To explore your treatment options, call (410) 656-2278 or request an appointment online.