Non-Implant Missing Tooth Replacement Options

You have just lost a tooth. Either it was due to an unfortunate accident or the dentist was forced to remove the tooth for health risks. You now are left with a gap. That gap needs to be filled or the neighboring teeth will shift into that space and the result will have a negative affect your bite pattern. There are two methods to filling that gap. You can elect to have an implant placed into your jaw. If that is not an option you can have a dental bridge in maple grove minnesota made. For the sake of this review we will focus on the different variations of dental bridges available and which might be best for your situation.

The Different Types of Dental Bridges available

The definition of a bridge is a structure that spans a physical obstacle. So, it is only fitting that we use the same definition for this dental solution. There are four types of dental bridges available based on which might be best for you and the location of your gap.

The first and most common dental bridge is the Traditional Bridge. As with a traffic bridge, you need an abutment on each side to span that gap. The two neighboring teeth become abutment or anchor teeth. This method starts with an impression made of your teeth. Once this is done those two abutment teeth will have the top layer of enamel removed to accommodate crowns. The artificial tooth is called a pontic. Temporary crowns are placed on the abutment teeth while the permanent crowns and the pontic are made at a dental lab. The artificial tooth is anchored to the two crowns. Upon return the two crowns are cemented over the abutment teeth and your gap is filled. The material used is enamel or porcelain to match your other teeth and will have a life expectancy of close to 10 years.

The second dental bridge is called a Cantilever Bridge. With only one abutment tooth to anchor the pontic it is the same process otherwise.

A Maryland Bridge is the third dental bridge. The difference here to the traditional bridge is that the abutment teeth do not receive crowns. Instead a metal framework is bonded to the back side of both the anchor teeth to suspend the artificial tooth. The disadvantage with the method is the additional care in dealing with brushing and flossing around the metal framework. The advantage is the two abutment teeth have remaining totally normal.

Sometimes this method is a good segue as you prepare for an implant at a later date. The final dental bridge is when you have a gap that includes three teeth. In this scenario, an implant will be necessary in the middle of the gap. Then two traditional bridges can be made from that implant to the two anchor teeth.

A Very Viable Solution

As you can see, you have options. Simply consult with your dentist to review your situation and what will be best for you at the time. Fill that gap to maintain the beauty of your smile.

More on Dental Bridges : What is a Dental Bridge?