Introduction

A dental bridge is a permanent dental appliance for people with tooth loss or decay. It replaces one or more missing or damaged teeth by closing the gap between two healthy teeth (abutment teeth). The appliance helps people chew food and speak. It can also have a natural tooth-like appearance.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge consists of a false tooth held in position by the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. The supporting teeth consist of crowns placed on the healthy teeth to help the bridge. Another crown in the middle connects these crowns and acts as a false tooth.

What Are the Different Types of Dental Bridges?

Depending on the case, we have four types of dental bridges. They are as follows,

1. 1. Traditional Dental Bridge-

   It is the most common type of bridge. It has a false tooth supported by crowns placed on the nearby healthy teeth. They have a fixed or removable nature, and dentists use them in cases with healthy adjacent teeth. The commonly used materials used are either porcelain fused to metal or ceramic.

2. 2. Maryland Bonded Bridge-

   These are known as resin-bonded bridges as well. They need the presence of natural and healthy adjacent teeth. Instead of crowns, these bridges have wing-like parts made of metal or porcelain attached to the back parts of supporting teeth. These appliances are not strong enough to bear the chewing forces, and dentists use them for the front teeth.

3. 3. Cantilever Bridge-

   These are different from traditional bridges. These attach only to one adjacent healthy tooth. So, the fake tooth needs one crown for support. Cantilever bridges increase the risk of breaking the teeth or injuring the jaw due to less support.

4. 4. Implant-Supported Bridge-

   As the name implies, this type requires dental implants. An implant is in place for the missing tooth, which is placed surgically into the jawbone. The implants hold the bridge in position. This product is considered the most stable. Its procedure takes months to complete.

Materials Used for Dental Bridges

As we explore the world of dental bridges, understanding the materials used becomes crucial.

• Traditional Materials:

  The foundation of dental bridges lies in conventional materials like porcelain, ceramic, resin, and metal alloys. Each material serves a specific purpose, offering a range of options to cater to diverse dental needs.

• Porcelain and Ceramic:

  Known for their natural aesthetic appeal, porcelain and ceramic provide a lifelike appearance to dental bridges. These materials are often chosen for their ability to mimic the clarity and colour of natural teeth. Illusion Zirconia Aesthetic emerges as the standout material in dental bridges, particularly for front teeth. Illusion Dental Lab's commitment to quality is evident in the choice of Zirconia for its strength and natural appearance.

• Resin and Metals:

  Resin and metals like gold or alloy contribute to the strength and durability of dental bridges. These materials ensure the longevity of the bridge, providing stability and functionality. 

• Combination Materials:

  A fusion of materials, such as porcelain fused to metal, combines the best of both worlds. This combination enhances the bridge's strength while maintaining a pleasing aesthetic.

Who Can Receive a Dental Bridge?

Individuals who should consider getting a dental bridge have-

• One or more missing natural teeth because of injury, decay, or infection.
• Good physical health (no serious health problems or infections).
• Healthy teeth and strong jaws.
• Overall, good oral hygiene and health.

Complications That Arise from Using a Dental Bridge

• Injury to the abutment teeth can weaken the dental bridge and cause it to fail.
• Poor oral hygiene can cause food or bacteria to accumulate under the crown. This results in tooth decay and makes the bridge unstable.
• Poor cementation of the abutment can also make it unstable.
• The bridge may fail if the teeth are not strong enough to support it.
• Crowns can cause bite problems and pain, which makes it difficult for the patient to chew food. 

What Are the Factors That Affect the Cost of Dental Bridges?

• Case Difficulty-

  The number of false teeth needed to fill the gap from missing teeth determines the difficulty of a case. This also affects the total cost.

• Materials Used-

  The choice of material used, like metal, resin, ceramic, porcelain or Zirconia, helps to determine the cost. Materials like ceramic, porcelain, and Zirconia can cost more due to their favourable characteristics and aesthetics.

• Extra Treatments-

  Some patients may need added treatments such as teeth cleaning, filling cavities, removing teeth, or treating gum disease. Such therapies add to the overall cost. 

• Dentist Experience-

  Experienced dentists charge more than new dentists, which increases the total cost of treatment. 

• Clinic Location-

  Clinics in big cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi may charge more than clinics in small towns. 

Aftercare of a Dental Bridge

It is essential to look after your dental bridge to prevent it from failing. Dental bridges typically last 10-15 years or longer if taken care of well. The different ways to maintain care include-

• Brushing twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and a soft brush.
• Floss daily. Ask your dentist how to floss beneath the bridge. There are also tiny brushes and electric water flossers that help clean beneath the bridge. 
• You will have to make some changes in your diet. Avoid hard and sticky foods like nuts, candy, popcorn, and sugary foods. These can cause damage and breakage of the dental bridge.
• Go for regular dental appointments and cleanings.

Conclusion:

Missing and decaying teeth can significantly lower a person's confidence. Dental bridges are a great way to restore trust, smile, and other oral functions. Thus, making the quality of life better.

Brands like Illusion Dental Lab provide superior-quality dental bridges with quality assurance certificates and an international lifetime warranty. Illusion Dental Lab's expertise in creating Illusion Zirconia Dental Crowns goes hand in hand with its commitment to quality. Illusion Zirconia Life Bridge provides a lifetime international warranty, assuring they get the value they are looking for. One can ensure a healthy, beautiful smile and overcome the difficulties of missing teeth by replacing them with dental bridges, which help maintain your dental and overall health.