Dental Bridge Southborough MA

Dental Bridge | If you are missing teeth due to disease or injury, you may be considering replacing them. However, dental implants can be cost-prohibitive. While they look and function like real teeth, they can cost a few thousand dollars per tooth, and they are not covered by insurance. Fortunately, bridges are a less costly alternative. Bridges use false teeth called pontics to fill in the gaps in your mouth. The pontic is held in place by abutment teeth, which are the teeth on either side of the gap. If you are missing multiple teeth and don’t have abutment teeth, there are still ways to accomplish your smile goals with a bridge. There are several types of bridges to choose from. Southborough Dental Partners can help you choose the right one for your needs. 

Types of Bridges

There are four types of dental bridges:

• Traditional. Traditional bridges are the most common. Dental crowns are cemented onto the abutment teeth on both sides of the missing tooth. These abutment teeth then hold the pontic in place. You can use a traditional bridge if you have abutment teeth.
• Maryland. A Maryland bridge is similar to a traditional bridge. It still requires abutment teeth. The main difference, however, is that instead of crowns, framework is used. This porcelain or metal framework is bonded to the backs of the abutment teeth.
• Cantilever. A cantilever bridge is another variation of the traditional bridge. This type of bridge requires just one abutment tooth, however, so you don’t need one on both sides.
• Implanted-supported. As the name suggests, an implant-supported bridge used dental implants rather than pontics. If a person is missing multiple teeth, pontics and implants can be used. This is the strongest type of the bridge, but also the most costly and time-consuming.

Pros and Cons

Bridges offer many advantages. They look and feel like real teeth, so they offer a natural look. Inaddition, theyare permanent fixtures that stay in your mouth, unlike dentures. Bridges also last a long time. With proper care, you can expect your bridge to last as long as 15 years. They are durable and can withstand everyday chewing. Bridges are also less costly than options such as dental implants.

There are some downsides, though. Bridges are unlike natural teeth in that the teeth are fused together. Therefore, you cannot floss normally, making cleaning a challenge. Another thing to consider is that the abutment teeth have to be grinded down for the bridge to work properly. Most patients are fine with this, but to others, it is a concern.

Another thing to consider is the longevity. The bond can weaken over time, and many patients have to replace their bridges at least every decade. 

Contact Us Today

If you have gaps in your mouth due to missing teeth, a bridge can close these gaps and make your smile more aesthetically pleasing. A bridge can also make your jaw healthier, so if you’ve been considering fixing your smile, this is a great option. If you’re tired of a gap-toothed smile, restore your confidence with a bridge. The team at Southborough Dental Partners can help you achieve your smile goals. Contact our office and schedule a consultation by calling (508) 357-8800.