A dental bridge is a medical device that, as the name implies, bridges the gap left by missing teeth. You can benefit from a dental bridge if you have one or more missing teeth in a row.

Bridges consist of artificial teeth called pontics. Pontics can be made of porcelain or metal. The existing teeth around the gap are called abutment teeth, and crowns on these teeth hold your bridgework securely in place.

Dental bridges are all made up of artificial teeth. But there are different ways to attach them to your mouth. Among the most common dental bridges are traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, and Maryland bridges.

Traditional dental bridges

Traditional bridges are a popular choice for patients with healthy natural teeth on both sides of the gap. A traditional bridge has one or more artificial teeth in the middle, and it’s held in place with crowns on the abutment teeth on either side.

In some cases, Dr. Hwang secures the bridge to dental implants. Implants are artificial tooth roots surgically mounted into your jaw to provide a stable base for dental restorations.

Cantilever dental bridges

Though similar to traditional bridges, cantilever bridges require just one abutment tooth on one side of the gap. These bridges are a good choice if you’re missing teeth at the back of your mouth. Dr. Hwang secures cantilever bridges with a crown on the tooth nearest the gap.

Maryland dental bridges

Maryland bridges use two abutment teeth like traditional bridges. While traditional bridges stay in place with crowns on the abutment teeth, Maryland bridges are secured with porcelain or metal framework that’s bonded to the backs of your teeth.

Dental bridges are a customizable solution for missing teeth. If you’ve lost a tooth or you need to have one pulled, a bridge makes it easier for you to chew and talk. Bridges can also protect your oral health because they take the strain off your remaining natural teeth and keep them from shifting position.

Dr. Hwang considers which teeth you’re missing and your overall health in your dental bridge evaluation. Then she recommends the best kind of bridge for your situation.

It’s time to find out if a dental bridge is right for your smile. Make your first appointment today, either online or by calling Smile for Miles Dental.