A confident smile is often associated with good oral health, but missing teeth can hinder appearance and function. Dental bridges are restorative dental treatments that replace one or more missing teeth by spanning the gap between adjacent teeth. Typically consisting of artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by dental crowns, bridges are securely anchored to the natural teeth on either side of the gap, restoring the smile's function, aesthetics, and alignment. By filling in missing teeth, dental bridges help prevent shifting of surrounding teeth, restore proper chewing and speaking abilities, maintain facial structure, and enhance confidence by providing a natural-looking, seamless smile. This reliable and durable solution offers numerous benefits, including improved oral health, restore function, enhanced aesthetics, and increased self-confidence. It is a popular choice for patients seeking a permanent tooth replacement option. 

Types of Dental Bridges 

Traditional Dental Bridges 

Traditional bridges are the most common type and consist of pontics held in place by dental crowns, cemented to the natural teeth adjacent to the gap. This type of bridge is ideal when natural teeth on either side of the gap can support the restoration. 

Benefits 

• Restores aesthetics by filling in gaps left by missing teeth. 
• Improves chewing and speaking abilities. 
• It prevents shifting of surrounding teeth and maintains proper alignment. 
• Provides durability and longevity with proper care. 

Cantilever Bridges 

Cantilever bridges are similar to traditional bridges but are anchored to only one natural tooth adjacent to the gap. While less common than traditional bridges, cantilever bridges are suitable when only one natural tooth is available for support. 

Benefits 

• Suitable for cases with limited adjacent teeth. 
• Restores function and aesthetics effectively. 
• Provides stability and durability. 

Maryland Bridges 

Maryland bridges, also known as resin-bonded bridges, use metal or porcelain wings bonded to the backs of adjacent natural teeth to support the pontic. This type of bridge is a conservative option that preserves more healthy tooth structure but may not be suitable for replacing missing molars or teeth under significant pressure. 

Benefits 

• Minimally invasive procedure. 
• Preserves more healthy tooth structure. 
• Suitable for replacing missing front teeth. 
• Provides aesthetic benefits with natural-looking results. 

Implant-Supported Bridges 

Implant-supported bridges offer a highly stable and durable solution for replacing multiple missing teeth or edentulous areas in the mouth. Unlike traditional bridges that rely on adjacent natural teeth for support, implant-supported bridges are anchored securely to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. These implants serve as artificial tooth roots, providing unparalleled stability and support for the bridge while stimulating the surrounding bone to prevent bone loss and maintain facial structure. Implant-supported bridges restore chewing function, speech clarity, and aesthetics, offering patients a long-lasting and reliable solution for tooth replacement.

Benefits 

• Offers stability and strength comparable to natural teeth. 
• Preserves jawbone density and prevents bone loss. 
• Restores chewing function and prevents facial sagging. 
• Provides long-lasting results with proper care. 

The Dental Bridge Procedure

The dental bridge procedure typically involves several steps to ensure a custom-fit restoration that seamlessly blends with the natural teeth. Initially, the dentist in Pittsburg, KS, conducts a comprehensive examination, which may include X-rays and impressions, to assess the oral health and determine the suitability for a dental bridge. During the treatment appointment, the adjacent teeth are prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to accommodate the dental crowns supporting the bridge. Impressions of the prepared teeth and surrounding structures are then taken to create a precise mold for the fabrication of the bridge. While the permanent bridge is custom-made in a dental laboratory, a temporary bridge may be placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain aesthetics. Once the permanent bridge is ready, the dentist at Smile Solutions ensures proper fit, bite alignment, and aesthetics before permanently cementing it. Patients are provided with instructions for oral hygiene and care to maintain the longevity of the dental bridge, which can restore function, aesthetics, and confidence in their smile for many years with regular dental check-ups and proper maintenance. Contact us today! 

The Benefits of Dental Bridges 

Improved Aesthetics 

One of the primary benefits of dental bridges in Pittsburg, KS, is their ability to enhance the smile's aesthetics. Bridges restore the appearance of a complete and natural smile by filling in gaps left by missing teeth. Custom-designed pontics (artificial teeth) closely resemble natural teeth in shape, size, and color, ensuring a seamless and harmonious blend with the surrounding teeth. With dental bridges, patients can regain confidence in their smiles and feel more comfortable and self-assured in social and professional settings. 

Restored Function 

Beyond aesthetics, dental bridges also restore proper chewing and speaking abilities, which may be compromised due to missing teeth. By replacing missing teeth, bridges allow individuals to chew their food more effectively, enjoy a wider variety of foods, and maintain a balanced diet essential for overall health. Additionally, bridges help restore speech clarity, enabling patients to communicate clearly and confidently without the hindrance of missing teeth. 

Prevention of Dental Problems 

Dental bridges are crucial in preventing dental problems associated with missing teeth. When a tooth is lost, neighboring teeth may shift out of alignment over time, leading to bite issues, uneven wear, and an increased risk of gum disease and tooth decay. By filling in the gap and maintaining proper tooth alignment, bridges help prevent these problems and promote long-term oral health. Bridges distribute chewing forces evenly across the dental arch, reducing the strain on remaining natural teeth and minimizing the risk of fractures or other damage. 

Preservation of Facial Structure 

Missing teeth can contribute to changes in facial structure over time, including sagging of the cheeks and lips and a sunken appearance around the mouth. Dental bridges help preserve facial structure by filling in gaps and supporting the lips and cheeks, restoring a youthful and vibrant facial profile. By maintaining proper tooth alignment and preventing bone loss in the jaw, bridges contribute to overall facial harmony and symmetry, enhancing facial aesthetics and promoting a more youthful appearance. 

Dental bridges are a valuable restorative dental treatment that offers numerous benefits for individuals with missing teeth. Whether you're missing one or several teeth, dental bridges provide a reliable solution to restore your smile's aesthetics, function, and health. If you're considering dental bridges as a treatment option, visit Smile Solutions at 611 North Broadway Suite B, Pittsburg, KS 66762, or call (620) 231-4140 to explore how dental bridges can help you achieve a beautiful, functional smile that lasts a lifetime.