What is Dental Bridge?
Dental bridges are designed to bridge the gap stemming from one or more missing teeth. The content of materials used when making bridge teeth is usually metal-supported porcelain and zirconium-supported porcelain.
Types of Dental Bridges :
Traditional Dental Bridge:
Traditional dental bridges are made by crowns on both sides of the missing tooth. It is the most common bridge type.
Maryland Dental Bridges:
Maryland bridge, also known as the winged bridge, is a process that is performed without cutting the teeth. A framework of metal or porcelain which is sticked into the back sides of abutment teeth is used, rather than dental crowns as in traditional bridges. Maryland bridge is less preferred method as it is not durable compared to other bridges.
Implant Dental Bridges:
The implant bridge tooth is used instead of the adjacent tooth that will serve as a support in cases where the adjacent tooth to support the bridge is not present in the mouth.
Cantilever Bridges:
Cantilever bridges are used when there is only one adjacent tooth next to the missing tooth or teeth. It is the least preferred bridge type.
Dental bridge application procedure
In order to replace the cavities in the mouth with a bridge tooth, dental examination is performed with panoramic x-rays. In the first examination, the patient’s story is listened and the procedure to be performed is explained to the patient in detail. Then, the teeth are cut with a low dose of anesthesia by making the crown fit in order to make a bridge tooth. Later, dental impression is taken with an impression paste and a temporary tooth is inserted in order to prevent the shortened teeth from creating a bad image and sensitivity. In the second appointment given for the placement of the bridge tooth, which will be made in line with the measurements taken, the harmony and color of the bridge tooth with the cut teeth is rehearsed. After the rehearsal, the bridge tooth is attached with the approval of patients.
Advantages of dental bridges
There are many advantages of dental bridges. First of all it is a functional and effective solution for the replacement of missing tooth or teeth which disturb patients. With the bridge application, patients can chew normally since the bridges support mastication of food. Bridges also increase self confidence through providing a more aesthetic look.
Disadvantages of dental bridges :
There are few disadvantages of dental bridges. Firstly the abutment tooth next to missing tooth which hold the pontic might be damaged. Also if the crown is not well fitted plaque or bacteria might be seen underneath the bridge. However with proper oral care before and after the procedure these problems can be prevented.
How long can dental bridges last?
The lifespan of the use of bridge teeth also varies according to the person’s attention to oral hygiene and diet. The bridge tooth, which generally has a usage period of 10-15 years, can be used for 20-25 years depending on the person.
What Is a Fixed Denture?
Oral health issues may result in tooth loss. Tooth loss may lead to have difficulty in speaking and eating and create aesthetic concerns. One of the treatments which are performed to enhance this situation is called fixed denture. This method is preferred more since a dental fixture has maximum strength and retention. Teeth are filed down and the dentures which simulate gum tissue made in dental laboratories are fixed on the minimized natural teeth. Fixed dentures vary in material. The available options are porcelain, zirconia or laminate dentures.
How Long Does Fixed Dentures Last?
Fixed dentures can last for 5 years. The denture can become loose and fall because of the damage on tissues. Regular dental visits may extend the time of usage.
Advantages of Fixed Dentures
Fixed dentures help patients to regain their speaking and eating ability and aesthetic appearance. They are easy to use since there is no risk of them falling out.
They give a natural and aesthetic look, so the patients feel much more like their own teeth.
Disadvantages of Fixed Dentures
Although there can be discomfort because of oral hygiene problems, the pretreatments and post treatments minimize the risk. The cost of the system is higher than that of other dentures but the disadvantage can be overlooked considering the comfort and natural look it provides.
How To Apply Fixed Dentures?
In the pretreatment visit, the doctor conducts the examination and starts making preparations for prosthetics after then. The predetermined tooth (or teeth) is measured and filed down. After measurement, dentist makes a dental impression according to the chosen material. Denture should have an aesthetic look and match other teeth properly. After receiving patient’s approval, the impression is sent to laboratory. After the dentures are cemented, debris is swept away and the patient is informed about how to take care of dentures.
What is a Snap-On Denture?
People with many tooth loss prefer snap-on dentures instead of fixed dentures. The dentist makes housings to locate on the dental implants and snaps abutments in place. The process is called Snap on Dentures. Snap-on dentures are stable and they don’t cause rocking or shifting. They are long lasting due to the ease of cleaning.
The Advantages of Snap-on Dentures
Snap-on dentures have become more common among other denture systems. The first reason for that is its being a long lasting type of denture. It’s fast to install and easy to use. It doesn’t have a negative effect on daily life due to its highly stable composition. It doesn’t create any risk factors.
How to Apply Snap-on Dentures?
The dentist takes measurements to fix them into patient’s mouth properly. Trial fits are performed after the measurements. Dental snaps are placed on the teeth and prosthesis to fix the snap-on dentures. The treatment takes 10 days and at least 3 visits are required.
How Long Do Snap-On Dentures Last?
Snap-on dentures last for 5 years. Since the teeth wear out over time eventually, regular dental visits and a healthy dental hygiene regimen help the efficacy of the operation.
