Understanding Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It works by anchoring artificial teeth (pontics) to adjacent healthy teeth (abutment teeth) that have been prepared with crowns. Dr. Robert J. Miller DDS in Delray Beach, FL, offers custom-designed dental bridges to restore your smile’s function, prevent remaining teeth from shifting, and improve your ability to eat and speak.

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Types of Dental Bridges

  • Traditional Bridges: The most common type, involving crowns on the abutment teeth with a pontic in between.
  • Cantilever Bridges: Used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth.
  • Maryland Bridges (Resin-Bonded Bridges): Consist of a pontic with metal or porcelain wings that are bonded to the adjacent teeth.
  • Implant-Supported Bridges: Used when several teeth are missing, and the bridge is anchored to dental implants instead of natural teeth.

The Dental Bridge Procedure

The process of getting a dental bridge typically involves:

  1. Preparation of Abutment Teeth: The teeth adjacent to the gap are prepared to receive crowns.
  2. Impressions: Impressions of your teeth are taken to create a custom-made bridge.
  3. Temporary Bridge: A temporary bridge may be placed while the permanent bridge is being fabricated. 4. Cementation: The permanent bridge is carefully fitted and cemented onto the abutment teeth.

Restore Your Smile’s Completeness in Delray Beach

If you have missing teeth, a dental bridge can be an effective solution to restore your smile’s appearance and function. Contact Dr. Robert J. Miller DDS in Delray Beach, FL, to discuss your options and determine if a dental bridge is right for you.