Are you exploring the option of a dental bridge? Yes, losing teeth – for whatever reason – can be distressing. Not only can it affect the way we speak and what we can eat, but as our teeth are the support structure of our face, it can also change our appearance quite radically. Missing teeth can also impact the alignment of our existing teeth creating an unfortunate cascade effect in our mouths.

A dental bridge is one of many options available to replace missing teeth and restore a bright, confident smile.

Let’s unpack the most common questions around dental bridges and try to understand how we can benefit from them.

What is a Dental Bridge?

For the sake of clarity, let’s make sure we understand exactly what a dental bridge is.

A dental bridge is, quite literally, a bridge created to fill the gap between existing teeth.

There are a few options available, and a frank conversation with your dentist will highlight which choice is right for you.

They are:

• Traditional bridge
• Cantilever bridge
• Maryland bridge
• Implant-supported bridge

How does a dental bridge help?

A dental bridge is a permanent solution and is often a preferential fix to dentures if more than one tooth has been lost.

A traditional bridge is most often used to fill in a gap between two or more existing natural teeth. The procedure includes shaving down the adjacent teeth to make them smaller to accommodate the pontic (false tooth) and the crown which will be placed over them.

A cantilever bridge is much the same as a traditional bridge but is only attached to one natural tooth. The same process as above is applied with the enamel of the natural tooth being shaved away to allow for the new tooth and crown.

Maryland bridges are an alternative to traditional dental bridges in that they too, rely on natural abutment teeth. However, as opposed to filing away the existing natural tooth, the replacement tooth is bonded to the back of it. These are a great option for preserving the existing teeth but are not ideal for teeth which are subjected to a lot of bite force.

Implant-supported bridges, as the name suggests, make use of an implant as opposed to a natural tooth for their support. These bridges can span multiple teeth or even full-mouth bridges.

As you can see, each option comes with its own set of pros and cons which you can discuss with your dentist.

What Can Gum Pain Around A Dental Bridge Suggest?

If you’ve already undergone a dental bridge procedure and you are suffering from pain or inflammation, you may be a little concerned.

What are the most common issues?

It may be that your dental bridge has not been fitted correctly and there may be gaps in the margins of your bridge which are harbouring bacteria. Also, a high sugar diet, poor oral hygiene, and the fact that extra care needs to be given to cleaning dental bridges could lead to gum disease or tooth decay on the existing natural teeth.

If you are experiencing ongoing pain, an unpleasant smell in your mouth or inflammation then a visit to your dentist is a must!

Depending on your procedure, you may still be experiencing gum sensitivity from an extraction or root canal. This may mean that your bridge feels a little uncomfortable or painful, but if the problem is related to temporary gum swelling then this will pass.

In Conclusion

We’re sure you’ll agree that if you’re going to make use of a dental bridge to close a gap or replace a few missing teeth, then you want it done properly – the first time.

You’ll be happy to know that the Shine Dental team are a group of techies who make use of state-of-the-art technology to reduce procedure time, get fast, accurate and beautiful results. If you want it done right, then chat with us.

Book your consultation now on 01420 550 616.