Is a Dental Bridge the Best Choice to Replace My Missing Teeth?

No one wants holes in their smile, but the loss of teeth is more than a cosmetic issue. Missing teeth can lead to significant oral health problems. 

If you’re missing teeth, a dental bridge can be a good option. Dental bridges replace missing teeth in a natural-looking and functional way. 

The expert team at Greenwich Dentistry in Greenwich, Connecticut, guides you through the best choices for your teeth, including whether a dental bridge is best for your situation.

What’s a dental bridge? 

A dental bridge, as its name suggests, bridges the gap between teeth. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several teeth, a dental bridge often uses crowns on either side of the gap to stabilize the artificial teeth in between. 

These artificial teeth, known as pontics, are made of porcelain, gold, or other materials. 

Types of bridges 

There are four types of bridges to satisfy different patient needs: 

Traditional 

This common bridge uses pontics supported by crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap. Traditional bridges are long-lasting and look natural. A downside is that they require work on healthy teeth for the crowns. 

Cantilever 

This option can help if you only have one tooth next to the gap to use for support. It’s less invasive than a traditional dental bridge and could be a good choice in certain situations. 

Resin-bonded 

A less-permanent dental bridge can be a good option for still-growing adolescents. If your child loses a tooth playing sports, for example, this type of bridge may be right for them. We attach a fake tooth or teeth with a winged device that mounts to the back of the adjacent teeth.

Implant-supported 

This type of bridge uses dental implants to anchor it. Implant-supported bridges prevent bone loss and are durable. A downside is the implant requires surgery and, therefore, a longer healing process. 

Each bridge type makes it easier to chew food, looks natural, and requires only routine care. But which is right for you? It depends on factors like oral health, jawbone health, and the health of the adjacent teeth.

Before recommending a type of bridge for your missing teeth, we evaluate the number of missing teeth, jawbone density, potential risks, and preferences. We rely on a combination of physical evaluation and imaging studies like X-rays to make recommendations. 

If you’re ready to address your missing teeth, we’re ready to help. Whether it’s a dental bridge or another teeth-replacement option, our expert team at Greenwich Dentistry can help you make the right decision. Call our Cos Cob office today to make an appointment.