Dental Bridges
-
- Tweet
Rainbow Dental, P.C.
Nabila Y. Mannan, D.D.S.
Cosmetic & General Dentist & Pediatric Dentist located in Astoria, NY
Your smile is the first thing people see, but if you’re missing teeth, you may not want to show it. At Rainbow Dental, PC in Astoria and Sunnyside, New York, Nabila Mannan, DDS, specializes in dental bridges that fill in those gaps, as well as a variety of other cosmetic dental services to restore your smile. Call today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.
Dental Bridges Q & A
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is one way that dentists replace one or a few missing teeth. The bridge anchors false teeth to teeth or implants surrounding the missing tooth, usually with crowns. False teeth, called pontics, are supported by implants or natural teeth.
If you’re missing teeth, dental bridges can be a great way to repair your smile. Dental bridges are durable and robust, and they can be made of porcelain, gold, metal, or alloys.
What are the benefits of a dental bridge?
The benefits of dental bridges go beyond improving your smile. They can:
- Restore your ability to chew and speak properly
- Distribute your bite correctly
- Keep your remaining teeth in place
- Maintain your face shape
Is there more than one kind of dental bridge?
Three main types of dental bridges are available:
Traditional bridges
For this most common type of bridge, Dr. Mannan creates an implant or crown on each side of the missing tooth or teeth, and the bridge goes between them. They are usually made of ceramic or porcelain fused to metal.
Cantilever bridges
A cantilever bridge is used when there are only supporting teeth on one side of the missing teeth. Instead of being secured by teeth surrounding the gap, the bridge is only secured on one side.
Maryland bonded bridges
Maryland bonded bridges are held in place by porcelain or metal framework on the backs of adjacent teeth instead of by crowns. A conservative alternative to traditional bridges, strength can be an issue with these bridges, and they may not stay in place in some regions of the mouth.
How are dental bridges placed?
At your first appointment, Dr. Mannan prepares your anchor teeth, creating abutments. These are the teeth where your bridge will be attached. After forming the abutments, Dr. Mannan takes a mold that will be used to create your custom dental bridge.
Your permanent bridge will take a week or two to make, but Dr. Mannan will fit you with a temporary bridge during your first appointment. It not only conceals your missing tooth but protects the gum and abutments while you wait for your permanent bridge.
At your follow-up appointment when your permanent bridge is ready, Dr. Mannan will put it in place with adhesive.
If you’re missing a tooth, contact Dr. Mannan or schedule your appointment online today.
