A missing tooth or teeth can make you self-conscious about your smile and affect your bite and ability to chew and speak properly. Fortunately, there is a solution that can restore your appearance and your oral function: dental bridges.
Dental bridges are artificial teeth that replace one or more missing teeth. The replacement teeth are called pontics and are held in place by abutment crowns on the adjacent teeth. These crowns are bonded to the natural teeth on either side of the gap created by the missing tooth. The bridge is cemented into place permanently, so you don’t have to worry about removing it for cleaning or maintenance.
At Patibandla Dental, dental bridges can be made from different materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and metal alloys. Our dentist in Canton, OH, can help you decide which material is best for you based on your needs and preferences.
The traditional bridge is the most common type of dental bridge. It is held in place by two crowns placed over healthy teeth on both sides of the gap created by the missing tooth. These crowns are permanently cemented to the abutment teeth and are secured with a metal framework.
A Maryland bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, but instead of being bonded to neighboring teeth, the pontic is attached to a metal band that is then bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. This type of bridge is used when the adjacent teeth are healthy and strong.
A cantilever bridge is used when healthy teeth are on only one side of the gap created by your missing tooth. In this type of bridge, only one tooth is reduced in size to accommodate the bridge.
An implant-supported bridge is a fixed bridge that utilizes dental implants instead of crowns or bands to support the bridge. Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the roots of missing teeth. Once the implants have healed, they are used to secure the bridge.
If you are missing one or more teeth, our dentist may recommend a dental bridge to restore your smile and improve your oral health. Visit Patibandla Dental at 3507 CLEVELAND AVE. NW, Canton, OH 44709, or call (330) 452-0695 to schedule your appointment at our practice and learn more about the benefits of dental bridges.