Dental bridges are a fantastic option for patients with missing teeth who desire a complete and radiant smile without the need for invasive dental implants.

The different types of dental bridges

Bridges are usually made from metal, porcelain, or zirconia, and there are three types to choose from: traditional, cantilever, and the Maryland bridge. No matter which style you choose, a dental bridge offers patients the full functionality of a full set of teeth and smile.

Traditional Bridge

The most common type, this bridge involves placing dental crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth (pontic) secured between them.

Cantilever Bridge

Less common, this is when there is only one tooth next to the gap, so the crown is placed over that tooth and the pontic is attached to it. It’s less sturdy than being attached at both sides, so is not a good option for back teeth that need to deal with a lot of pressure.

Maryland Bridge

Named on behalf of the University of Maryland where it was invented. This involves a similar concept to the traditional style by connecting a false tooth to the teeth on each side of the gap, but instead of using crowns for the attachment, it uses ‘wings’ that attach to the back of each tooth next to the gap. This is again not ideal for back teeth, and only really an option for those with good oral health.

The pros and cons of a dental bridge

A dental bridge is a great way to replace a missing tooth for several reasons:

• Avoids an implant: Dental implants are affixed to the bone below the gum line, and some people prefer not to do this procedure. Also, implants are not suitable for those with poor gum or jaw health.
• A full smile and confidence: Missing teeth can lead to less confidence, with some people preferring to smile with their mouths closed to avoid showing the gap. A bridge fills this gap with a natural-looking tooth.
• Normal functionality: A dental bridge offers full functionality, meaning you’ll be able to eat, drink, and talk normally.
• Better oral health: A missing tooth can cause faster deterioration in your other teeth, and tooth movement for the remaining teeth, which means a bridge can improve your dental health.

There are also some other considerations for bridges when compared to other options for replacing teeth.

• Traditional bridges sometimes require putting crowns over perfectly healthy teeth: The adjacent teeth that support the bridge will require reshaping and covering, leading to the removal of a portion of their healthy tooth enamel. This heightens the potential for enduring harm to teeth that were initially in good condition. If the adjacent teeth already have fillings, crowns may benefit them.
• Maryland bridges can cause damage to the existing teeth and are not as sturdy: Maryland bridges can cause permanent damage to healthy teeth due to the cementing of metal at the back of the teeth. Additionally, these bridges are less resistant to chewing pressure compared to other types of bridges.
• Bridges don't correct bone loss in the jaw: When a tooth is absent or removed, the jaw bone that previously supported it initiates a process of resorption or dissolution. Unlike implants, which feature an artificial root anchored into the jaw bone, bridges are positioned above the gum line and lack roots. Consequently, bridges do not prevent bone loss like implants do.
• Bridges may not last as long as implants: The success of the bridge depends on the health and strength of the teeth it’s placed on. If decay occurs under the bridge, if there are gum problems, the bridge can fail.