Dental bridges are an alternative to dental implants and dentures for replacing teeth lost due to tooth decay, gum disease or oral trauma. Serving both an oral function and cosmetic purpose, dental bridges are designed to replace one or more missing teeth.

Dental bridges

A dentist can easily assess a person’s oral condition and teeth replacement needs. If a dental bridge is appropriate, the dentist will explain how the treatment works and dental bridge options available. There are three types of dental bridges, including traditional, cantilever and Maryland.

Missing gaps

Using three crowns cemented to teeth next to the missing teeth gap, traditional bridges provide a solution for those suffering the effects of missing teeth. Cantilever bridges use two crowns cemented to a single tooth next to the tooth gap. Maryland bridges use a wing clasped to teeth on either side of the tooth gap for support instead of crowns.

Replacing missing teeth is important for a number of reasons. People who lose teeth are at risk of tooth structure trauma and bone shrinkage. The remaining teeth are placed under pressure and may shift out of position or be more vulnerable to gum disease. Chewing and pronunciation for speech may be impacted.

Treatment for missing teeth

Receiving treatment for missing teeth, such as dental bridges, ensures that facial volume is not lost and that when smiling a person reveals healthy looking teeth. Dental bridges restore oral function, smiles and natural facial beauty.

Made to mimic natural teeth, dental bridges last between five and seven years. Some last longer if guidance for dental bridge maintenance is followed, and regular dental check-ups are continued.

Dentists advise those with dental bridges on how to care for their teeth restorations made of precious metal base and bonded porcelain. Oral hygiene may be maintained with regular teeth cleaning and dentist-recommended cleaning of the dental bridge. Contact Harley Street Dental Studio in the heart of London for more information on dental bridges.