A dental bridge is a fixed appliance used to replace up to several missing teeth. It’s made up of one or more false teeth fused between two crowns that hold them in place by being anchored to nearby, healthy teeth. Using dental bridges, we can restore your smile’s appearance and strength and help prevent your other teeth from shifting.

Who Would Need Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a good option when a patient is missing one or more teeth. A dental bridge can be used to replace one or more missing teeth without impacting nearby teeth. It can be anchored in place using dental implants or crowns that are fitted over prepared existing teeth. Getting a dental bridge prevents complications caused by missing teeth.

Why Choose a Dental Bridge?

There are several tooth replacement options available, with each of them having its own advantages. Among them, dental bridges are an affordable yet permanent replacement option for missing teeth. These dental appliances allow you to eat and speak with ease, unlike dentures that tend to slip off. Dental bridges also enhance your appearance.

The other benefits offered by dental bridges are as follows:

• Dental bridges offer the convenience of a fixed appliance, and hence, the wearer does not need to remove them every night like dentures. 
• Since dental bridges are anchored to other teeth, it is stable. 
• Dental bridges help restore an aesthetically appealing smile. 

Types of Dental Bridges

There are two types of dental bridges:

• Fixed Bridge:A fixed bridge is permanently attached to two healthy teeth on each side of the gap.
• Cantilever Bridge: A cantilever bridge is used when only one tooth remains on each side of the gap.

How Are Dental Bridges Placed?

Dental bridges have two main components: the teeth on either side of the gap and false teeth in between. The false teeth, also known as pontics, are affixed to the anchoring dental crowns called abutment teeth.

First, the dentist in Portland OR will scrape down any inflamed gum tissue or dental decay. Then, they will prepare the neighboring teeth, which will involve removing a portion of the enamel to make room for the dental bridge. The abutment crowns are then cemented to the prepared teeth, effectively securing the whole bridge.

How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

Dental bridges have an average lifespan of about ten to fifteen years. However, they may last longer or shorter depending on how well they are maintained.

To learn more about the dental services at Pacific Woods Dental, call 503-292-5483, and schedule an appointment now!