ADDRESS
Smile Studio Bangkok Dental Clinic & Dental Lab. 30/8 Saladaeng Rd., Silom Bangkok
Dental Bridge
Get to know dental bridges
A dental bridge is made up of a series of dental crowns fused together. Dental bridges literally “bridge” the gap created by missing teeth. They are another great option to replace missing teeth and restore optimal function and esthetics. A dental bridge fills in the gap using at least two surrounding teeth as anchors to hold false tooth/teeth in the place where the gap is. As fixed prostheses, patients do not need to worry if their dental bridges will fall out when they talk, eat or even laugh. A dental bridge also prevents the teeth close to the gap from shifting in and therefore maintains the shape of your face.
A GREAT SOLUTION
Dental bridges have many advantages including
- improving your appearance and giving your beautiful smiles back
- restoring function: patients are able to speak, eat or chew like they have their own teeth back
- Dental bridges do not fall out: patients are able to enjoy daily activities without worries.
- Preventing shifting of neighbouring teeth
- maintaining the shape of your face
TYPES OF DENTAL BRIDGES
Traditional fixed bridge
is the most common type of dental bridge. Traditional bridges use support from two or more teeth on both sides of the gap. Dental crowns are made and placed over two surrounding teeth on both sides of the gap to hold the false tooth called “pontic” in place.
Cantilever bridge
is commonly used when there are teeth left on only one side of the gap. Cantilever bridge is normally used on front teeth or areas where no heavy chewing force is applied.
Resin-bonded bridge ( Maryland bridge )
is a metal framework holding a false tooth. The metal framework is then attached to the back of natural teeth. This kind of bridge requires minimal tooth preparation, thus considered a conservative option. Resin-bonded bridge is best used in the area that does not experience heavy bite force.
HOW IT IS DONE
At least two visits are required for placing a dental bridge.
At first appointment three important tasks need to be completed
- The surrounding teeth are prepared by removing a small amount of enamel in order to accommodate the new crowns over them.
- An impression of your teeth is taken and sent to the dental lab for fabricating.
- A temporary bridge is fitted in to protect your teeth and gums while the bridge is being prepared.
At second appointment
- The temporary bridge is removed and the permanent dental bridge is fitted and adjusted.
- Re-check visits for further adjustments may be necessary.
HOW LONG WILL DENTAL BRIDGES LAST?
With good dental hygiene and eating habits, dental bridges can last over 10 years or even a lifetime.
HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR DENTAL BRIDGES?
The key to making dental bridge last is to keep it ‘clean’ by brushing and flossing regularly. You may need to use more effort and care around the bridge area, especially where the dental bridge meets your natural teeth. These surrounding natural teeth need to be healthy to provide support to the dental bridge. A floss threader, which helps get dental floss under the bridge and a small proxy brush can be used to better clean your bridge. Make sure you eat a nutritious diet to make your teeth and gum stay healthy and strong. Do Visit your dentist on a regular basis as it helps detect any early problems.