Dental bridges are an appropriate restorative dental procedure for many patients but not the only option available. To determine the appropriate use of dental bridges for each unique case, it is wise to consider the pros and cons of the procedure.
A dental bridge usually consists of two crowns that are placed on abutment teeth or implants on either side of a gap in the mouth, plus a mouse that joins the two crowns and fills the gap. The bridge can be made of various materials such as gold, silver, porcelain and metals fused with porcelain.
Denture, dental bridge, Image Source: Goran Cakmazovic / Shutterstock
Advantages of Dental Bridges
There are several positive effects of dental bridges, which account for their frequent use in restorative dentistry.
First, dental bridges are an effective solution for replacing missing teeth in the mouth, offering both functional and aesthetic correction.
In terms of function, the bridge allows the patient to chew and eat normally as there is no longer a gap in the jaw and the bridge can assist in chewing food. It can also help people speak without inhibition by filling the gap in the teeth that can change the placement of the tongue and the way sounds are made in the mouth.
Dental Bridges
Aesthetically, a dental bridge can compensate for the loss of primary teeth, particularly if the bridge closely matches the color of the surrounding teeth. This can help improve self-esteem and confidence in patients who feel uncomfortable about their appearance due to missing teeth.
Dental bridges can also provide benefits for the long-term structure of the mouth. Under normal circumstances, a gap in the jaw causes the teeth to gradually shift and spread, which can cause problems with the bite. In contrast, when a bridge is used to replace missing teeth, the teeth on both sides are held firmly in place to reduce the risk of movement and subsequent bite problems. In addition, the bridge can also help reduce the risk of bone loss from the jaw and thereby preserve facial structure.
Many patients also prefer dental bridges because of the way they feel in the mouth and their easy maintenance. It usually takes a short time for the patient to get used to the feeling of the dental bridge, after which it is not noticeable because it becomes part of the structure of the mouth. Unlike dentures, bridges do not need to be removed regularly for cleaning and can be cleaned just like natural teeth by brushing.
Disadvantages of Dental Bridges
However, there are also several disadvantages associated with the use of dental bridges in restorative dentistry.
First, the healthy abutment teeth on either side of the gap that hold the pontoon in place can be damaged in some cases after the bridge is placed. For example, there is a risk of decay if the bridge and crowns are not well placed and allow plaque and bacteria to enter from underneath. In addition, the structure of the teeth can change after crowns and bridges are placed.
For some patients, the supporting abutment teeth have insufficient strength to hold the bridge and consequently collapse. This presents additional problems that will need to be addressed and may even worsen the original condition. In severe cases, the supporting teeth may eventually need to be replaced by dental implants.
Weighing the pros and cons
The best type of restorative dental treatment will depend on the individual case and the pros and cons should be considered in the decision making process. It is mandatory for the dentist to present the different options to patients, along with the risks and benefits of each option, so that together they can make the best decision.
