A dental bridge is a permanent or long-term oral appliance that a dentist mounts to other teeth or to the bone of the jaw to replace one or more missing teeth. If you have lost teeth due to decay, impact, or gum disease, a bridge may be a good solution. Here are some of the most common types of dental bridges you should know about if you're considering such a procedure.

4 Types of Bridges to Discuss With Your Dentist

1. Traditional Bridges

The traditional bridge includes one or more false teeth that fill a gap where natural teeth are missing. Teeth on either side of the gap are ground down and capped with crowns. The crowns are cemented into place so that they anchor the bridge at its endpoints. Note that, because the bridge installation requires removal of protective enamel from the anchor teeth, those teeth will thereafter require crowns, even if they are not attached to a bridge. 

2. Maryland Bridges

The Maryland bridge is like the traditional bridge, except that the appliance is cemented to the back of the anchor teeth. The anchor teeth, therefore, need not be ground down or crowned. However, such a bridge is not as strong as the traditional type. The exposed ends can interfere with eating and can come loose if subjected to a great deal of bite force.

3. Surgical Implants

Implants are not mounted to anchor teeth, but to screws placed into the jawbone. This type looks and feels almost exactly like a natural tooth but requires two surgical procedures spaced months apart. The first procedure mounts the screws, while the second—once the site has healed—installs the implant.

4. Cantilever Bridges

The cantilever bridge is very much like the traditional type. However, it is used when a missing tooth has an anchor tooth on only one side. The bridge is then supported by a crown mounted to that one tooth and cantilevered over the missing tooth site. It is not as secure as the traditional style, but it makes tooth replacement possible even if the missing tooth is a back molar. 

If you are considering a dental bridge and seek a competent, compassionate dentist, contact Splendental Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Columbus, OH. Led by Dr. Douglas Nartker, they specialize in bridges, teeth cleaning, cavities, dentures, and tooth extractions. Visit their website to learn more about their *free* teeth whitening service, or call (614) 588-0678 to schedule an appointment.