Alamogordo dental bridges can play a crucial role in restoring a patient’s smile and aiding the essential functions of speech and chewing. As a patient at Mountain View Dental, it’s natural to have questions about the various types of dental bridges and their suitability for your needs.
Dental bridges are a part of restorative dentistry that ‘bridge’ the gap created by one or more missing teeth. They comprise two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap – these anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth – and a false tooth/teeth in between. The false teeth are called pontics, and we can customize them from various materials, including gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Some dental bridges can be removable, and we’ll highlight some pros and cons of all options.
During a consultation, our team will assess your oral health and discuss your preferences to recommend the best type of dental bridge for your situation.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are several types of dental bridges, each suited for different needs:
- Traditional bridges involve creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between.
- We use cantilever bridges when adjacent teeth are on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth.
- Maryland bonded bridges use a framework of porcelain, metal, or plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal or porcelain framework bonded onto the backs of the existing teeth.
- Implant-supported bridges are similar to traditional bridges, but instead of being attached to teeth, dental implants support them.
Removability of Dental Bridges
The removability of a dental bridge is primarily determined by the patient’s needs and the specific case the dentist is treating. Generally speaking, we can divide dental bridges into two categories in terms of removability:
Factors Determining Removability
- The health of the surrounding teeth
- The position of the missing teeth
- The overall health of the patient
- The financial considerations
Differences Between Removable and Fixed Bridges
- Fixed bridges are not designed to be removed, whereas you can take out removable bridges for cleaning or in the evenings.
- Fixed bridges are typically designed to provide a long-term solution, while removable bridges might be a temporary measure.
- Cleaning and caring for your dental health with a fixed bridge is different from the care that a removable bridge requires.
Benefits of Removable Dental Bridges
For some patients, removable dental bridges offer certain advantages:
Convenience and Ease of Cleaning
Removable bridges allow for easier cleaning of both the appliance and the supporting teeth. The ability to remove the bridge can make maintaining oral hygiene more accessible and more thorough.
Maintenance and Oral Hygiene
Regular and proper cleaning of a removable bridge and the teeth that support the bridge can lead to better oral hygiene in the long run. Reduced plaque and tartar buildup can protect the overall health of the teeth and gums.
Drawbacks of Removable Dental Bridges
While they can be beneficial in specific scenarios, removable dental bridges come with their own set of downsides:
Stability and Comfort Issues
Removable bridges are often less stable than their fixed counterparts, leading to discomfort or the feeling of a foreign object in the mouth. This instability may also reduce the bridge’s overall effectiveness in aiding speech and chewing.
Potential Impact on Speech and Chewing
The mobility of a removable bridge can impact the patient’s speech in some cases, particularly while they are becoming accustomed to the appliance. Additionally, the bridge’s mobility may affect the patient’s natural chewing motion and food consumption.
Alternatives to Removable Dental Bridges
It’s worth considering other options when deciding on the type of dental bridge that’s right for you:
Fixed Dental Bridges
These are more commonly used and offer superior stability and comfort than removable bridges. They are not intended to be taken out for cleaning or any other reason.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a more long-lasting solution to replace missing teeth. They are surgically positioned into the jawbone beneath the gum line and offer a base for the replacement teeth.
Alamogordo Dental Bridges
Dental bridges, whether fixed or removable, can significantly improve oral health and function. As you consider the option of a dental bridge, Dr. Miller, Dr. Carlen, Dr. Lybbert, and their team will help you understand the factors that come into play, the implications of each design, and how they align with your needs. Mountain View Dental is here to guide you through this decision-making process. We’re just a consultation away if you have further questions or are ready to explore our quality restorative dentistry in Alamogordo, New Mexico, including dental bridge options, dental implants, and dental crowns. Remember that no matter your choice, the goal remains the same – to provide you with a healthy, confident smile.