Dental implants aren’t the sole option for those missing teeth. Those looking for a non-surgical option are often interested in dental bridges. A bridge is an artificial tooth bonded to neighboring crowns. This creates a new tooth structure that is not directly attached to your gums, but to teeth on either side. Dental bridges serve a functional and cosmetic purpose, both preventing periodontal disease at the site and filling in your smile.
Bridges last an average of ten years, and prevent teeth surrounding a gap from rotating or shifting. This impedes the development of gingivitis and a TMJ disorder. Due to their non-surgical nature, dental bridges are the simplest way to replace one or several missing teeth.
What is a Bridge?
A dental bridge’s construction is detailed in its name: it consists of two anchor crowns on either side of a full false tooth. The anchor crowns secure the tooth in a gap where a tooth is missing. Bridges constructed with porcelain crowns blend with your other teeth and form a natural-looking smile.
Is a Dental Bridge the Right Option for Me?
You will need to schedule a consultation with our team to learn more about whether a bridge is the ideal tooth replacement method. Before your appointment, there are a few factors to consider so that you have a better idea whether a bridge might be the right option. A bridge may be appropriate for patients who are
- Missing a single tooth
- Not interested in dental implants
- Interested in affordable tooth replacement
- Interested in a faster restorative process
It’s also important to note that dental bridges do not last as long as implant-supported restorations, and that the adjacent teeth will need to be prepared in order for the anchor crowns to fit into place.
If you’re ready to learn more, book a complimentary consultation to have a one-on-one conversation with Dr. de Jongh.