Dental bridges are a standard restorative procedure in that patients often choose to replace one or two missing teeth. The dental bridge procedure involves placing a false tooth or teeth between two crowns connected to the surrounding teeth. At Gulf Coast Dental, a dental bridge can be used to replace one tooth, several teeth, or all of the teeth.

Types of Dental Bridges

Traditional Bridges

Traditional bridges are dental crowns supported by one or more adjacent dental crowns. The adjacent teeth will need to be ground down to support the dental crowns, so you will need to have those teeth fitted with the dental crown after the dental bridge is placed. Traditional bridges are one of the cheapest forms because they are very economical and do not require much dental work.

Cantilever Bridges

Cantilever bridges are ideal for patients who have lost teeth in the back of their mouth or whose remaining teeth are not strong enough to hold a bridge in place. The cantilever bridge consists of an artificial tooth supported by two crowns.

Maryland Bonded Bridges

Maryland bonded bridges are false teeth fused by a resin filling. They are connected to the surrounding teeth. Maryland bonded bridges are less expensive than other types.  This bridge style is resilient, strong, and can last up to 15 years. 

Implant-Supported Bridges

Dental implants on either side of your missing tooth will provide a strong base for a dental bridge. Since implants become a part of your jawbone, they provide a stable foundation that won't slip or make clicking sounds when you bite down. Implant-supported bridges are a good option when more than one tooth needs to be replaced, but the teeth on either side of the gap aren't strong enough to support a bridge.

The Benefits of Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration designed to replace a missing tooth. A dental bridge can restore both function and appearance to your smile. The dental bridge comprises crowns on adjacent teeth, which hold the replacement tooth in place, and pontics, which are the fake teeth that fill the space. A dental bridge will fill in the gaps in your smile, prevent shifting surrounding teeth, and keep teeth from drifting out of position.

A dental bridge is custom designed and crafted just for you based on an impression of your teeth. The bridge is typically made from porcelain and is fused to a metal base. A dental bridge can last for 5 to 15 years with proper hygiene.

Gulf Coast Dental is located at 1751 W 9 Mile Rd. Pensacola, FL 32534, or call Dentist in Pensacola, FL at (850) 495-6899 for additional information on the advantages of dental bridges.