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Dental bridges have been around for ages, and for good reason. Their design has always effectively helped restore patients’ smiles and their bite function, and today, that design remains similar to the original concept. However, with the help of advanced diagnostic and imaging technology, lifelike dental materials, and innovative prosthetic dental techniques, today’s bridges can offer significant benefits for the long-term health of your smile. Today, we examine a few of the most important things to consider about modern dental bridges and their ability to address the multiple concerns of tooth loss. 

How Bridges Work

The two main parts of a dental bridge are the lifelike replacement tooth (pontic) and the crowns that support them. The pontic is designed to closely mimic your lost tooth’s natural, healthy appearance, while the crowns are designed to mimic the healthy teeth closest to the spot where your tooth once rested. Your dentist can secure the bridge in place by securing the crowns to these teeth, supporting the pontic to fill the gap in your smile.

What They Require

The biggest concern about conventional dental bridges is the effect that modifications can have on healthy tooth structure. Changing the structures of these teeth to support the bridge’s crowns can permanently alter their structural integrity, which may have an impact on your oral health down the road.

Consider an Improvement

To avoid these potential consequences, your dentist can suggest replacing your lost tooth with a dental implant and crown. Like the pontic of a bridge, the crown will be carefully designed to mimic your lost tooth, though it can be supported by a root-like implant post rather than bordering dental crowns.

Ask Your Dentist About a Dental Bridge

Depending on your specific dental concerns, a dental bridge may be your best option, especially if it’s supported on one or more dental implants. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA, today at (319) 364-7108. We also welcome patients from Mount Vernon, Iowa City, Hiawatha, and all nearby communities.