A dental bridge (or pontic) is a custom-made false tooth or teeth that are permanently placed between two healthy teeth, filling in the area left by a missing tooth or teeth. The bridge is held in place by porcelain crowns placed on the healthy teeth on each side of space to be filled.
A bridge created by a cosmetic dentist is completely metal-free. As a result, the bridge absorbs light, creating a natural looking smile.
Bridges reduce the risk of gum disease, limit the shifting of remaining teeth, help correct some bite problems and help improve speech.
There are three main types of bridges:
Traditional bridges involve creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between. Cantilever bridges are used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth.
Maryland bonded bridges (also called a resin-bonded bridge or a Maryland bridge) are made of plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal framework.
Process for obtaining a dental bridge
The abutment teeth are first prepared. Preparation involves recon touring these teeth by removing a portion of enamel to allow room for a crown to be placed over them. Next, impressions of your teeth will be made by a dental laboratory. Your dentist will make a temporary bridge for you to wear to protect the exposed teeth and gums.
Later, your temporary bridge will be removed and the new permanent bridge will be checked and adjusted, as necessary, to achieve a proper fit. Multiple visits may be required to check the fit of the metal framework and bite.
How long do dental bridges last?
Dental bridges can last 5 to 7 years and even longer. With good oral hygiene and regular prophylaxis, it is not unusual for the life span of a fixed bridge to be over 10 years.
Dr KS Thamizhselvi
COSMO Z ZONE
# G 128A Ground floor 2nd phase Spencer plaza
Annasalai Chennai 600002
smileartists@gmail.com
M-98841 72155 / 044 -4351 6886.