Dental Bridges in MA
Dental Bridges
Durable Dental Bridges in Jamaica Plain and Malden, MA
Durable Dental Bridges
What Are Dental Bridge
Types of Dental Bridges We Offer
Traditional bridges are the most commonly used type. They consist of a replacement tooth, or pontic, held in place by dental crowns on the adjacent teeth. These crowns act as anchors, providing strong support for the pontic. Ideal for patients with healthy teeth on both sides of the gap, traditional bridges offer a durable and long-lasting solution to restore both functionality and appearance.
Cantilever bridges are used when only one adjacent healthy tooth is on one side of the gap. The bridge is anchored to the remaining healthy tooth, supporting the replacement tooth. This type of bridge is often recommended for areas where only one tooth is available for support, such as the front teeth, and is ideal when there’s minimal space between adjacent teeth.
Maryland bridges are a conservative and minimally invasive option, especially for missing front teeth. They consist of a replacement tooth attached to a metal or porcelain framework that bonds to the back of the adjacent teeth. Unlike traditional bridges, Maryland bridges don’t require extensive preparation of the neighboring teeth, making them a gentler option for restoring missing teeth while maintaining a natural look.
Implant-supported bridges provide a stable and durable solution for replacing multiple missing teeth. Instead of relying on adjacent teeth for support, dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone to anchor the bridge. This type of bridge is ideal for patients who don’t have enough healthy teeth for a traditional bridge. Implant-supported bridges offer greater stability and function, helping restore the smile’s form and function.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Bridges?
If you’re missing a single tooth or several teeth in a row, a dental bridge can fill the gap, restoring your smile and improving your ability to chew and speak comfortably.
For traditional dental bridges, the teeth on either side of the gap must be healthy and strong enough to support the bridge. If natural teeth are unavailable, implant-supported bridges offer a stable alternative by using dental implants as the anchor.
Your gums and remaining teeth should be in good condition. If you have gum disease or cavities, these conditions must be addressed before proceeding with a dental bridge.
Causes & Symptoms of Missing Teeth
Causes of Missing Teeth
- Tooth Decay: Severe cavities can damage teeth beyond repair, leading to tooth loss.
- Trauma or Injury: Accidents or sports injuries can knock out teeth. Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease can weaken the teeth’s support, causing them to fall out.
- Tooth Extraction: Teeth may be removed due to infection or severe decay.
- Teeth Grinding: Bruxism can cause tooth damage that leads to loss.
Symptoms of Missing Teeth
- Visible Gaps: Missing teeth create noticeable gaps in your smile.
- Difficulty Chewing: Missing teeth, especially molars, can make eating difficult.
- Shifting Teeth: Surrounding teeth may move into the gap, leading to misalignment.
- Changes in Speech: Missing front teeth can affect pronunciation.
- Facial Changes: Tooth loss can cause the face to look sunken or aged.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Restores Oral Functionality: Bridges fill the gap caused by missing teeth, improving chewing and speaking abilities.
- Enhances Aesthetic Appeal: Made from materials that mimic natural teeth, bridges restore your smile and facial symmetry.
- Prevents Tooth Shifting: Bridges prevent surrounding teeth from shifting and misaligning by filling the gap.
- Improves Speech: Bridges help restore proper tooth positioning, improving speech clarity.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: Dental bridges can last 10–15 years or longer with proper care.
- Cost-Effective Option: More affordable than implants, bridges offer a less invasive alternative for tooth replacement.
- Increases Confidence: Restoring your smile boosts self-esteem, helping you feel more confident in social and professional settings.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
During your initial consultation, we will assess the health of your teeth and gums. Our team will take X-rays and discuss your goals to determine the best type of dental bridge for you.
If you opt for a traditional bridge, we will prepare the adjacent teeth by removing a small amount of enamel to ensure the crowns fit securely. If you’re receiving an implant-supported bridge, we will discuss the implantation procedure.
Once the adjacent teeth are prepared, we take precise impressions to create a custom bridge. A temporary bridge will be placed while your permanent one is being crafted.
After making your custom bridge, you will return to our office for a fitting. We will ensure the bridge fits comfortably and aligns with your bite before securing it in place permanently.
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FAQs
Dental bridges typically last between 10 and 15 years with proper care. Their lifespan can vary depending on the material used, oral hygiene habits, and how well you maintain the surrounding teeth. Regular dental checkups can help ensure your bridge remains in good condition for years.
Yes, dental bridges can be repaired or replaced if they become damaged. Contact your dentist immediately if you notice any issues, such as a loose or broken bridge. Timely repairs can help prevent further damage and ensure your smile remains intact.
Yes, once your dental bridge is placed, you should be able to eat most foods just as you did before. However, it’s best to avoid chewing on hard foods, such as ice or hard candy, as they may damage the bridge. It’s also important to be mindful of your bite and ensure the bridge feels comfortable when eating.
Dental bridges offer a more permanent solution than dentures. While dentures are removable, dental bridges are fixed and provide a more stable, secure, and natural-looking result. Bridges also require less maintenance compared to dentures, making them a popular choice for those looking for a long-term solution.
Dental implants can support dental bridges if there are not enough healthy natural teeth to help a traditional bridge. Implant-supported bridges are an excellent option for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth but still want a secure and durable restoration.
Dental bridges are custom-made to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth, making them blend seamlessly into your smile. Whether you choose a porcelain bridge or a metal-ceramic combination, the result will look and feel like your natural teeth.
