Whenever you drive across a bridge, you’re being supported by the same principles that support a dental bridge. Crowned teeth on either side of a space are called abutments. They support an artificial tooth, called a pontic. While a bridge lasts for many years, sometimes the strain of supporting one or more missing teeth can cause the abutments themselves to weaken and may lead to more missing teeth.
In many cases, dental implants offer a better alternative, eliminating most of the load-bearing strain you see in traditional bridge abutments. When carefully placed in the bone, an implant mimics the root of a tooth. They bear the load that the natural teeth used to hold, sparing the neighboring teeth from excessive forces. In some cases, two implants may be used to build a bridge.
Our doctors know how to bring the puzzle pieces together to fit any scenario regardless of the scope of your treatment.
Yes. Dental bridges are designed to be strong and durable, but they can still become damaged over time. Like natural teeth, a bridge may chip, crack, or weaken due to everyday wear, biting on hard foods, teeth grinding, or poor oral hygiene. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can help protect your bridge and extend its lifespan.
Porcelain dental bridges are made from strong, tooth-colored ceramic materials designed to closely resemble natural teeth. Some bridges are made entirely of porcelain or ceramic, while others have a metal or zirconia base covered with porcelain for added strength. Your dentist can recommend the best material based on the location of the bridge, your bite, and your individual needs.
Yes, porcelain can be an excellent choice for a fixed dental bridge. It offers a natural, tooth-like appearance and can be matched to the color of your surrounding teeth. Depending on the location of the bridge and your individual needs, your dentist may recommend all-porcelain or porcelain combined with another strong material for added durability.
Porcelain bridges are highly resistant to staining and generally maintain their color well over time. However, plaque and surface buildup can still affect their appearance, especially around the edges of the bridge. Regular brushing, flossing, professional cleanings, and limiting stain-causing foods and drinks can help keep your bridge looking its best.
