Dental Bridges

What are dental bridges?

A dental bridge is an oral prosthetic designed to fill a gap or space in your smile. Dental bridges feature a false tooth, or pontic, and rely on your healthy surrounding teeth for support. To hold your bridge in place, your dentist uses dental crowns or a custom metal framework. 

In addition to restoring your smile, dental bridges lower your risk of more serious oral health problems. If you’re missing a permanent tooth, you’re also more likely to experience gum recession and bone decay. 

Are there different types of dental bridges?

Yes. At Union Square Dental, the team offers four types of dental bridges, including:

Traditional dental bridges

A traditional dental bridge is the most popular type of bridge. It features a false tooth and two crowns that your dentist bonds to the healthy permanent teeth on either side of the gap. This type of prosthetic is an excellent solution if you’re missing only one permanent tooth.

Maryland dental bridges

A Maryland dental bridge is very similar to a traditional dental bridge. The only difference is that your dentist bonds it to the back of your abutment teeth using a metal framework instead of two dental crowns. 

Cantilever dental bridges

If you’re missing more than one tooth, your dentist might recommend a cantilever bridge. A cantilever bridge only needs one abutment tooth for support. Your dentist bonds a cantilever bridge to one crown instead of two. 

Implant-supported dental bridges

If you’re missing a series of permanent teeth and you want a long-lasting solution, your dentist might recommend an implant-supported dental bridge. Implant-supported dental bridges attach to dental implants, which are small metal posts that are surgically placed in your jawbone.

What are the benefits of dental bridges?

Dental bridges present several benefits, including:

• Restoring your smile
• Restoring your chewing and biting abilities
• Maintaining the shape of your face

Dental bridges also prevent your remaining teeth from moving out of position, ensuring your smile says straight and cosmetically pleasing. 

What type of dental bridge is right for me?

To determine the type of dental bridge you’ll most benefit from, make an appointment with the team at Union Square Dental. Following an oral exam, review of your medical history, and discussion of your goals for treatment, the team can make a recommendation that aligns with your needs.  

If you are missing one or multiple teeth, you may benefit from treatment with a dental bridge. Request an appointment at Union Square Dental today by calling the office or using the online booking tool.