By definition, a bridge is a structure that spans a chasm and connects two landing points. Dental bridges are similar in that they are designed to span the gap caused by a missing tooth, and fill the void with a natural-looking artificial tooth. A dental bridge is often used to replace missing teeth and can have a dramatic effect on the overall appearance of your smile and the functionality of your mouth. Dental Bridges are often constructed of gold or metal foundations with porcelain fused to the foundation. This ensures that the bridge will support the normal functions of the mouth.
Types of Bridges
There are different types of dental bridges – permanent and semi-permanent. Bridges are sometimes referred to as fixed partial dentures, because they are semi-permanent and are bonded to existing teeth or implants. There are three main types of bridges:
Traditional Dental Bridge
Cosmetic dentists have been creating traditional bridges for a number of years. The traditional bridge is used when a crown or implant is created on either side of the missing tooth. It is the most common type of bridge and typically is made of a metal core that is covered with porcelain finish.
Cantilever Dental Bridge
These bridges are used in specific cases when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. The cantilever bridge normally requires two teeth to anchor to, to ensure enough support to properly anchor the bridge.
Maryland (Resin Bonded) Bridge
This bridge is made from a metal framework and is structured with wings that are bonded to existing teeth on each side of the bridge. This bridge is commonly used to replace front teeth, frequently missing due to a sports injury or an accident.
Procedure of Creating a Dental Bridge
Restoring your beautiful smile with a Dental Bridge is the specialty and passion of Chicago dentist, Dr. Nancy Block. She is a caring professional that provides quality dental care in a quiet, calm environment in her Gold Coast office.
To begin the process of creating and placing a dental bridge, the existing teeth need to be prepared, as they will act as the anchor or “abutment” for the bridge; in the same manner as there are abutments in road bridges.
After she has shaped the adjacent teeth, Dr. Block will take an impression of the area needing the bridge and send it to a special dental laboratory where they will fabricate a custom dental bridge just for you. The lab can take a week or two to create the permanent bridge, so Dr. Block will place a temporary bridge to enhance your smile while you wait for the permanent bridge to arrive.
During your second visit, Dr. Block will test fit and then permanently cement the bridge in place. Great care is taken to ensure the fit of your new bridge is perfect and feels like your natural teeth.
About Dr. Nancy Block
Dr. Nancy Block is a licensed provider of General and Preventative Dentistry as well as Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry and accepts most major dental insurance plans in Illinois.
Dr. Block treats patients in the Chicago Metro area including the neighborhoods of Lakeview, Lincoln Park, The Loop, Magnificent Mile, Old Town, River North, Streeterville, The West Loop and the Gold Coast.
