1913 W South Blvd. Troy, MI 48098
Posted 07/28/2021
Dr. Keith Kelley offers patients in the greater Troy area the best in advanced cosmetic and restorative dentistry. This includes many options for restoring missing teeth, such as removable and fixed dental bridges, partial dentures, and full dentures.
We'd like to look at the different kinds of dental bridges that are out there as these can help a patient smile with confidence again.
About Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are appliances that are used in order to replace teeth that are missing. They help fill the gap between teeth, and they are most ideal for people who are missing a tooth or a few teeth in a row. It's important that the patient have some tooth structure adjacent to the dental bridge in order for the bridge to fill the teeth along the dental arch.
Traditional Dental Bridges
Traditional dental bridges are removable and fit in place by latching around the teeth that are adjacent to the tooth gap.
Pros and Cons of Traditional Dental Bridges
The advantages of traditional dental bridges are as follows:
- Easy to craft and fit
- Easy to clean
- Generally good stability
- Generally affordable
The disadvantage of traditional dental bridges is it does not:
- Address bone loss and gum recession that occurs after tooth loss
Crown-Supported Dental Bridges
Crown-supported dental bridges are fixed bridges that are held in place by using crowns on either side of the bridge itself. These crowns are used to cap the existing teeth adjacent to the gap, securing the bridge in place.
Pros and Cons of Crown-Supported Dental Bridges
The advantages of crown-supported dental bridges are:
- Easy to craft and fit
- Generally affordable
The disadvantages of crown-supported dental bridges are:
- Adjacent teeth will require prep and treating
- Does not address bone loss and gum recession that occurs after tooth loss
Implant-Supported Dental Bridges
Implant-supported dental bridges are fixed bridges that are held in place by dental implants (artificial tooth roots that are surgically anchored into the jawbone and gum tissue). The dental bridge is secured to the implants and its stability is comparable to natural teeth.
Pros and Cons of Implant-Supported Dental Bridges
The advantages of implant-supported dental bridges are:
- Exceptional fit and hold
- Stability comparable to natural teeth
- Prevents bone loss and gum recession
The disadvantages of implant-supported dental bridges are:
- Treatment can be more expensive initially but rarely need to be redone
- Healing requires a few months before implants are fit to support dental appliances
- Oral surgery may preclude patients with medical conditions from getting dental implants
Which kind of bridge is best for me?
During your consultation at our practice, we will be sure to go over all of your options for enhanced dental care. You will get all the information you need to make the best decision about your restorative dentistry needs.
Learn More About Dental Bridges
For more information about dental bridges and how they can help you have a healthy smile that looks great, be sure to contact our office today. Dr. Kelley and his team look forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve exceptional dental health and wellness.