Is A Front Dental Bridge The Best Option?

Is A Front Dental Bridge The Best Option?

Posted by: Dr Monica Amin

A missing front tooth can cause several complications. Not only do front missing teeth significantly affect one’s facial aesthetics and smile, but they can also create difficulty in eating and speaking. Dental bridges are fixed appliances that are used for replacing one or more missing natural teeth. Thanks to modern dentistry, newer, aesthetically superior, durable, and tooth-conservative options are now available to replace missing teeth. This article discusses everything to know about dental bridges and when they are suitable for replacing missing teeth.  

What Are The Benefits Of Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges offer several advantages over removable dentures. Unlike dentures, bridges remain fixed to the teeth that support a bridge; Hence, they provide better eating and speech efficiency. Furthermore, bridges are more stain-resistant and have superior esthetics than removable dentures. Finally, teeth fixed bridges are longer lasting compared with conventional dentures. 

When Should I Get A Dental Bridge?

Today, the durable and aesthetically pleasing option for replacing missing teeth is dental implants. However, if, for some reason, you are not a suitable candidate for implants, then teeth bridges are the next best tooth replacement option available.

What Are The Cons Of Dental Cantilever Bridges?

A cantilever dental bridge is similar in design to the conventional tooth bridge. However, it is only attached to the abutment teeth at one end, according to Healthline. Cantilever dental bridges are suitable for tooth replacement in areas that do not receive excessive biting or chewing forces, such as the front teeth. However, not all patients are suitable candidates for getting this type of bridge. 

What Is The Difference Between A Crown And A Bridge?

According to the Oral Health Foundation, a crown is a restoration that rests over the visible portion of the tooth and is used for restoring the structure and aesthetics of chipped or fractured teeth. Therefore, dental crowns are used for restoring teeth, just like dental fillings. On the other hand, a bridge is a prosthesis made by joining dental crowns together to replace missing natural teeth. 

Why Is A Dental Cantilever Bridge Not Recommended?

Dental bridges are not recommended as tooth replacement options, as more aesthetically pleasing and durable options are available in dental implants. Besides, dental bridges have a significant drawback, wherein they require the sacrifice of natural tooth structure from the supporting teeth – to create space for their attachment. Therefore, dentists nowadays prefer using dental implants for tooth replacement. 

What Materials Are Dental Bridges Made Of?

Dental bridges are made of different materials. Typically, a bridge is made of a metal framework coated with porcelain to match the shade of the neighbouring. These types of bridges are called porcelain fused to metal (PFM) bridges. Alternatively, dental bridges can also be prepared solely from dental porcelains called all-ceramic or porcelain bridges. 

How Soon After A Tooth Extraction Can A Bridge Be Placed?

After tooth extraction, the surgical site has to be left undisturbed to promote optimal healing. Although it is possible to replace a missing tooth with a bridge immediately after its extraction, dentists like to wait for a few weeks to ensure that the swelling in the area has subsided. However, they may place a temporary bridge so that you don’t have to go without your teeth while the healing takes place and your final bridges are being fabricated. 

What Is The Difference Between Bridge Crown Or Implants?

A dental crown is used to restore the function, structure, and aesthetics of damaged teeth, while bridges and implants are used to replace missing teeth. If we compare dental bridges and implants, both these options significantly differ from each other. A bridge is an appliance that rests over supporting healthy teeth on either side and therefore requires the removal of healthy tooth structure for their placement. On the other hand, an implant is a metallic fixture directly embedded into the jawbone, just like natural teeth. Hence, besides being more durable and strong, a dental implant offers superior aesthetics and dental function compared with teeth bridges. 

Is It Possible For A Dental Bridge To Come Loose?

Although not very common, dental bridges can sometimes become loose. This may occur if:

  • There is an adhesive failure between the bridge and the underlying tooth
  • The supporting tooth gets chipped or fractured
  • Secondary decay occurs around the tooth

Dislodged bridges can sometimes be reattached to teeth, while in other cases, your dentist may have to prepare a fresh prosthesis. 

What Is The Best Option For Replacing Missing Teeth?

Among the currently available tooth replacement option, dental implants are by far the best option. This is because dental implants are highly durable and offer naturally pleasing aesthetics. Besides, dental implant supported bridges or crowns restore one’s ability to eat and speak without difficulty, as they are embedded in the jawbone like natural teeth. Finally, dental implants do not have any adverse effect or allergic reaction in the oral cavity. Hence, they are completely safe for clinical use. 

If you have one or two missing teeth that need to be replaced, you should consult a dentist in your area who has extensive experience and clinical expertise. If you are looking for a  top-quality, gentle dental, and affordable dental care practice in Elizabeth Street, your first choice should be Elizabeth Street Dental. Our highly qualified team of dentists offers pain-free dental services in a calm, relaxed, and comfortable environment. So, book a free virtual consultation appointment today and let us give you a healthy smile and pearly white teeth.

Dr Monica Amin
Latest posts by Dr Monica Amin (see all)