Dental Bridge Service in Tewksbury & Westford MA
General Dentistry
Why Dental Bridges?
If you have missing or decaying teeth, dental bridges may be the perfect replacement option to restore a confident smile.
Understanding Dental Bridges
Our dentists are dedicated to finding the right solution for missing teeth, and dental bridges often hit the mark based on options, durability, and price.
Dental bridges are an excellent solution for missing teeth, restoring your ability to enjoy food and smile confidently. They can also aid in other issues commonly caused by tooth loss, including speech and pronunciation problems and the potential that the remaining teeth may shift out of place. In many cases, dental bridges are covered partially or fully by your insurance plan.
How Do Dental Bridges Work?
Bridges are replacement teeth that are held in place by abutment teeth (either your natural teeth or dental implants on either side of the gap). Dentists can construct bridges in many ways to fit the specific needs of their patients. A pontic (false) tooth can be made from several materials. However, it is typically made from porcelain because this helps it blend with the teeth on either side and in the rest of the mouth.
Should I Choose Bridges?
Bridges can be a highly beneficial replacement option for your teeth. However, there are other solutions available, including dental implants and dentures. It’s always best to have personalized medical advice for your situation. Speak to your dentist about the benefits, risks, and costs of different options to make an informed decision about your oral health.
Types of Dental Bridges
Bridges can be designed by dentists in several ways, depending on how many teeth are present and other personal factors. Here are several of the most common types of dental bridges dentists use:
Traditional Bridges
Traditional bridges are the most common type used in dentistry. If your natural teeth are being used to hold the bridge, your dentist will create two dental crowns on the abutment teeth, with the bridge extending between them.
Maryland Bridges
A Maryland bridge is similar to traditional bridges, except that instead of attaching two dental crowns to your natural teeth, your dentist will bond a metal or porcelain frame to the back of the abutment teeth to support the bridge.
Cantilever Bridges
A cantilever bridge requires only one abutment tooth. A dental crown is attached to the natural tooth, and the bridge is supported on only one side. This is an excellent solution for those missing multiple teeth and with only one tooth beside the gap.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Implant-supported bridges work well for patients with many missing teeth. First, dental implants are placed in the mouth so that they can support the bridge(s). To place the bridge, your dentist will use the implants as supports.
Bonded Bridges & Composite Bridges
Bonded or composite bridges are often used as a temporary solution for a patient who is waiting to have a tooth or teeth removed and replaced using other dental solutions. In these bridges, a composite bonding material is used to secure the bridge.