The dental bridge is one of the earliest forms of prosthetic dentistry (the art of replacing lost or extracted teeth). While dentures are well-known for replacing entire rows of lost teeth, dental bridges are designed to restore the smiles of patients who’ve only lost a single tooth, or a few teeth in a consecutive row. As the name suggests, the dental prosthesis bridges the gap left by missing teeth, allowing you to once again bite, chew, and smile confidently. However, conventional bridges require the manipulation of your remaining healthy teeth, and Dr. Foust often recommends supporting a dental bridge on one or more dental implants, instead.
Traditional Dental Bridge Construction
To stay in place as you bite and chew, a dental bridge relies on one or two abutment teeth, which are healthy, natural that remain on either side of the empty space. Abutment teeth are modified to support the dental crowns that border the dental bridge, while the replacement teeth, or pontics, rest between them, on top of your gums. While modern dental bridges are crafted from lifelike dental porcelain that closely mimics your teeth’s natural color and shine, they don’t possess the same support system as your teeth (their roots), unless your bridge is secured to one or more dental implants.
The Value of a Strong Foundation
Dental implants are small, root-shaped devices that can be surgically inserted into the jawbone of a patient who’s lost one or more teeth. As the only option for replacing lost teeth roots, dental implants can offer unmatched support for a dental crown, bridge, or denture (depending on how many teeth you’ve lost). Unlike a traditional dental bridge, implants eliminate the need to modify healthy tooth structure, allowing you to preserve more of your natural smile while restoring what was lost.
ABOUT DENTAL IMPRESSIONS:
If you’ve lost one or more teeth and would like to learn more about the ideal option for replacing them, schedule an appointment with your Ankeny, IA dentist today. You can reach Dental Impressions by calling (515) 965-0230. Since 2006, Dr. Amanda Foust has proudly treated families in Ankeny, Alleman, Elkhart, Bondurant, and all surrounding communities.
