Types of dental bridges, complete guide from UNILASER in Medellin

• Dental bridges are divided into different categories according to their structure and way of placement. Every category presents specific characteristics for the patient´s needs. 
• It is important to know the different types of dental bridges to understand which one is more suitable in your case. The election of the correct category will depend on factors like missing teeth position and the condition of the adjacent teeth that will be used as pillars of the dental bridge.
• Categories of the dental bridges offer different options to replace missing teeth and restore functionality and aesthetic. Whit a professional advice, you could determine which category works better for you.

Types of dental bridges: A general vision

Existing different types of dental bridges we will describe the two more common:

1. Removable dental Bridge

The dental removable bridges are an economical option; not permanent. They are a perfect temporary option to replace one or several missing teeth, while tissues heal after a surgery and while implants will be placed. Those bridges can be attached with metal clips to the adjacent teeth, which allows easy cleaning and maintenance.

2. Fixed dental bridge

The dental fixed bridges, as the name implies, they are permanent or cemented to a pillar or an implant. They are a solid, aesthetic, and resistant solution to replace missing teeth. Providing an optimal appearance, very natural and functional. This type of bridge is recommended in cases when adjacent teeth are healthy and strong or are placed over implants.

For a more aesthetic solution. We can place porcelain veneers on the rest of the teeth in order to obtain a harmonic smile, with uniformity in shade, color and size.

Prices of dental bridges

• Prices of the dental bridges can vary depending on the type of bridge that you select. It is important to know if the dentist offers guarantee in bridges and implants, in case of any manufacturing defect.
• Removable dental bridges are usually an alternative more economic and faster in comparison with fixed dental bridges.
• The cost of the traditional zirconium bridge can be high; however, its durability is also longer.
• In general, the cantilever dental bridge can have an intermediate cost in relation with other type of bridges. 
• The dental Maryland bridges tend to be more conservative as there is no need of drilling adjacent teeth.

It is important to consult with a dentist to obtain a detailed and personalized estimated, according to the patient´s necessities.

Traditional dental bridge: characteristics and placement

The traditional dental bridge is one of the most common types used to replace missing teeth, but it is necessary to have natural teeth on both sides of the space of the missing teeth.

• It requires drilling or shaving adjacent teeth that they will serve as support for the bridge, and it will replace missing teeth.
• Those bridges are placed on pillar teeth by adhesive material with a strict adhesion protocol to provide stability to the bridge.

The placement of the traditional dental bridge requires roots and adjacent teeth in good condition to guarantee a precise adjustment and durable treatment. Those roots may need endodontic treatment (root canals) before placing the crowns. It is important to follow doctor´s indications to ensure the correct functionality of the dental bridges and prevent future complications.

Cantilever: advantages and recommendations

• This type of bridge is recommended especially in areas of the mouth with less force of biting and must be over long teeth or roots, periodontally in good condition.
• One of the main advantages of the cantilever bridge is that the support is in only one side, which makes them ideal for certain situations when the patient does not have pillar teeth in both sides. 
• Those bridges are an effective and durable alternative to restore the dental aesthetic in specific cases.
• It is important that the doctor evaluates carefully the patient’s case to determine if a cantilever bridge is the best option. Considering the oral health and the particular necessities of every person.
• The care and maintenance of the cantilever bridge is very important to guarantee its durability. Patient must follow the doctor’s instructions and keep a good dental hygiene.

Maryland bridge: Functionality and Benefits

The Maryland  bridge is a conservative option to replace missing teeth, because it is placed in adjacent teeth through wings without drilling or shaving adjacent teeth. This type of bridge is an efficient alternative in cases when patient is looking for a less invasive solution. At UNILASER this type of bridge is done in Zirconium.

• Conservative: does not need drilling of adjacent teeth; Maryland bridge preserve the original dental structure.
• Safe placement: through the side wings, the bridge is cemented to the adjacent teeth providing support and a resistant bite.
• Improved aesthetics: This type of bridge offers a natural appearance, because side wings camouflage in the posterior part of the adjacent teeth.
• Maryland bridge works to replace only one missing tooth in a small space or gap.

¿When it is necessary to replace a lost tooth with a dental bridge?

Replacing a tooth with a dental bridge is necessary when you have lost one or several teeth and are looking to restore functionality or smile aesthetics.

It is recommended, when patients cannot get implants, because a health condition.

Another fact to place a dental bridge is to prevent future dental issues as a dental mobility or changes in dental occlusion.

Care and maintenance of dental bridges

• Keeping a good oral health is fundamental, brushing and using dental floss for your teeth and for the bridge, helps prevent plaque, food and bacteria accumulation and cavities on your mouth. At the same time, you will keep healthy gums to prevent inflammation. 
• It is important to rinse your mouth with prescribed mouth wash. In addiction it is recommended to use waterpik or similar to clean deeper your teeth and dental bridge.
• Regular dental visits are the key to detecting any problem. The doctor could do prophylaxis and take x-rays to check the condition of the dental bridge.
• Avoid biting hard objects and sticky food can help to preserve the durability of your dental bridge. Food such as bones, crab legs, hard candy, ice, ribs or nuts can cause damages in your bridge. It is recommended using eating cutlery.

Tips for optimal oral health with dental bridges

• Keep a good oral hygiene is fundamental, brushing your teeth and the bridge three times a day an after eating.
• Using dental floss under bridge and around adjacent teeth.
• Prevent chewing or biting hard food.
• Use mouth wash prescribed by your doctor to keep your mouth clean and bacteria free.
• Periodic visits to your dentist.

Regular dentist appointments: Importance in the care of bridges

Regular visits to your dentist at UNILASER are fundamental to guarantee a long life to your bridge. During visits, the doctor can do an examination for early detection of any problem on it. In addition, on these appointments we will do prophylaxis that will help keeping a good oral health of your teeth, bridges and gums. At UNILASER we can give advice about bridges, homecare instructions and answer any questions.