919-682-5327 Bridges fill the gap created by missing teeth. They help support the other teeth in the mouth, keep a straight bite, and correct any chewing or speech problems caused by the missing teeth. Bridges are beneficial for dental health, though you may wonder what bridges are made of and the different types available.
Material Of Bridges
Bridges are typically made with gold, alloy, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Gold is stronger, though more visible. Porcelain matches tooth color, but is more breakable. Your dentist will discuss the different benefits of these materials and determine the best one for your bridges.
Traditional Fixed Bridges
This type of bridge is the one most commonly used. The teeth surrounding the gap are first filed down so they can fit the crowns that will be fastened to either side of the bridge. An impression is then made to create the crowns and bridge. They will be checked for fit before being cemented in place.
Maryland Bonded Bridges
Also known as a resin-bonded bridge, this type of bridge is usually used to replace teeth in the front of the mouth. It is made of porcelain fused to a metal tooth. This tooth is supported by a metal framework which consists of metal wings attached to the neighboring teeth.
Cantilever Bridges
This is not only a dental bridge but a type of river crossing bridge. In the dental world, this bridge is used if there are teeth available on only one side of the gap. Cantilever bridges work like the traditional bridges, except they either have only one dental crown for support or two (but with the crowning teeth being next to one another instead of on either side of the bridge).