Dental Bridges in Bellevue, WA

Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. They consist of two main components: the pontic and the abutments that anchor the bridge in place. The pontic fills the space left by the missing tooth or teeth, restoring functionality and aesthetics and preventing neighboring teeth from shifting.

Bridges can be made from materials like porcelain, metal alloys, or a combination of both, chosen based on durability, aesthetics, and the location of the bridge within the mouth. Dental bridges are custom-made by our dentist in Bellevue, WA, to fit the patient's mouth comfortably and securely, providing a long-term solution to tooth loss. Regular oral hygiene and dental visits are crucial to maintaining the longevity of dental bridges.

The Uses of Dental Bridges

The primary function of dental bridges is to replace one or more missing teeth. By filling the gap left by missing teeth, bridges restore the ability to chew and speak correctly, which can be impaired when teeth are missing.

Bridges help restore your smile and maintain the natural shape of your face. They are designed to look like natural teeth, blending in seamlessly with your remaining teeth for a natural appearance.

When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth can shift or tilt into the empty space, leading to bite problems and even further tooth loss. Bridges prevent this by filling the gap and maintaining proper teeth alignment.

Missing teeth can make chewing certain foods difficult and affect speech. Bridges in Bellevue, WA, restore the ability to chew correctly and pronounce words clearly, improving overall oral function.

Teeth support the lips, cheeks, and overall facial structure. By replacing missing teeth with bridges, facial contours and appearance can be maintained or restored.

When teeth are missing, the remaining teeth may be subject to increased stress during chewing. Bridges help distribute these forces evenly across the dental arch, reducing strain on individual teeth.

Having gaps in your smile can affect self-confidence and self-esteem. Bridges provide a functional and aesthetic solution, allowing individuals to smile confidently and feel better about their appearance.

Bridges provide a stable and fixed solution for replacing missing teeth for individuals who are not suitable candidates for dental implants or prefer a non-removable alternative to partial dentures.

Types of Dental Bridges

Traditional Bridges

Traditional bridges, also known as fixed bridges, are the most commonly used type by our dentist at Bellevue Impressions Dentistry. They are suitable when natural teeth are available on both sides of the gap left by a missing tooth or teeth.

A traditional bridge consists of one or more pontics (false teeth) held in place by dental crowns (caps) cemented onto the abutment teeth adjacent to the gap. These crowns serve as anchors for the pontic, restoring chewing function and maintaining the natural alignment of the teeth. Traditional bridges can be made from various materials, such as porcelain fused to metal, ceramics, or all-ceramic materials, providing a natural appearance that blends in seamlessly with the surrounding teeth.

Cantilever Bridges

Cantilever bridges are used when adjacent teeth are available on only one side of the gap created by a missing tooth or teeth. Unlike traditional bridges with crowns on both sides of the gap, a cantilever bridge uses a single dental crown to support the pontic.

This type of bridge is less common and is typically used in areas of the mouth with less stress on the teeth, such as the front teeth. Cantilever bridges can effectively restore function and aesthetics in situations where a traditional bridge may not be suitable. Contact us today to learn more.

Maryland Bonded Bridges

Maryland bonded or resin-bonded bridges are a conservative alternative to traditional bridges. They consist of a pontic (false tooth) held in place by a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth with resin cement.

Unlike traditional bridges that require the preparation (shaping) of the adjacent teeth, Maryland bridges require minimal preparation, making them a less invasive option. These bridges are often used to replace missing front teeth, where the adjacent teeth are strong and healthy enough to support the bridge.

Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges are anchored in place by dental implants rather than by crowns or frameworks placed on natural teeth. Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone acting as artificial tooth roots. The bridge is attached to the implants, providing excellent stability and function.

Implant-supported bridges are particularly beneficial for patients missing several teeth in a row who are not suitable candidates for individual implants for each missing tooth. They help preserve jawbone density by stimulating the bone, similar to natural tooth roots, and offer long-term durability and aesthetic benefits.

Dental bridges are crucial in restoring oral health, function, and aesthetics for individuals with missing teeth. Visit Bellevue Impressions Dentistry at 1811 156th Ave NE, Suite #1, Bellevue, WA 98007, or call (425) 746-8676 to determine if bridges are the right choice for your dental needs and lifestyle.