A dental bridge is a restorative option for patients with one or more missing teeth. A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by attaching an artificial tooth called a pontic to neighboring natural teeth or dental implants.
Dental bridges are a good way to restore your smile’s appearance and functionality. There are four main types of bridges dentists use to help their patients.
What Are the Four Types of Dental Bridges?
Below are the four types of dental bridges that you can find. Your dentist will recommend the right model based on your oral health and restorative needs.
1. Traditional
A traditional dental bridge replaces a lost tooth with a pontic, which is inserted between two crowns placed on natural teeth. These teeth serve as supports (abutments) for your replacement tooth. Patients eligible for a traditional dental bridge have natural teeth on both sides of the gap caused by their missing teeth.
2. Cantilever
If you only have one tooth on the side of your gap, then the dentist may suggest a cantilever bridge. It works like a traditional bridge, except the pontic extends over the gap without a second abutment.
The only drawback of cantilever bridges is that they are less stable than traditional dental bridges due to reduced support.
3. Maryland
Also known as a resin-bonded bridge, the Maryland bridge uses metal wings instead of crowns. The dentist secures these metal wings onto the backs of supportive teeth to hold the artificial tooth in place. Because they cannot withstand the force of chewing, Maryland dental bridges are only used on the front teeth.
4. Implant-Supported
For patients with multiple missing teeth in a row, dental implants can also serve as abutments for an artificial tooth. Combining bridges with implants can be a more cost-effective way to restore your smile.
The dentist will recommend which gaps are best to fill with implants and which you could cover with a bridge. It is important to work with a cosmetic dental specialist who can optimize your results without compromising the integrity of your jawbone.
Discover the Best Type of Bridge for Your Needs
Our dedicated team at Galleria Dental Aesthetics has decades of experience treating patients and restoring smiles. With a commitment to innovation, advancement, and quality, we ensure every patient receives the quality of care they deserve.
Led by Dr. Chong Lee, an experienced dentist with over 30 years of experience, the team delivers state-of-the-art care to patients throughout northern Virginia.
Please contact our office in McLean, VA, online or call 703-448-1020 to schedule an appointment.