Missing teeth can pose a number of problems impacting your dental health as well as the appearance of your smile. There are many options available to restore missing teeth. Dental bridges are ideal when people are missing a tooth or a few teeth. Our Rancho Cucamonga, CA dental practice offers different types of bridges to meet the needs of patients.

Sharon B. Mateja, DDS and her team would like to compare a few different kinds of dental bridges below: traditional removable bridges, implant-supported bridges, and fixed dental bridges. This will give you an idea of how these appliances can benefit you.

About Removable Dental Bridges

Removable dental bridges are the traditional kinds of bridges that many people have. These bridges remain in place by clasping around the teeth adjacent to the tooth gap. The bridge is braced in place securely, improving the appearance of your smile as well as restoring your ability to bite and chew.

Pros and Cons of Removable Dental Bridges

On the up side, removable dental bridges are affordable, durable, and easy to put on and take out. They are simple to clean and lead to generally high levels of patient satisfaction.

On the down side, removable dental bridges can slip out of place when you’re speaking, biting, or chewing. This tends to occur with certain difficult foods (such as corn) or if the fit of the bridge chances.

About Implant-Supported Dental Bridges

Implant-supported dental bridges are appliances that are held in place with dental implants. These dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically embedded into the jawbone and gum tissue. Thanks to dental implants, bridges can be held in place with a level of stability that is comparable to natural tooth roots.

Pros and Cons of Implant-Supported Dental Bridges

On the up side, implant-supported dental bridges provide the highest level of stability. They will not slip out while biting or chewing, providing optimal restoration of your smile’s appearance and function. Additionally, the dental implants prevent bone loss and gum recession, two common problems caused by tooth loss.

On the down side, implant-supported dental bridges are expensive, with a price tag that is much higher than traditional removable bridges. The oral surgery required to place the implants is followed by a months-long healing process. The cost and the length of treatment may put off patients despite the compelling benefits.

About Fixed Dental Bridges

In addition to removable bridges and implant-supported bridges, there are also fixed bridges to consider. These fixed bridges have a crown on either side of the bridge itself. The teeth on either side of the tooth gap are prepped so they can be capped by the crowns. The crows help keep the bridge fixed securely in place.

Pros and Cons of Fixed Dental Bridges

On the up side, fixed dental bridges offer a happy medium between removable bridges and implant-supported bridges. There is extra stability for the bridge, but without the much higher cost or the months-long healing process.

On the down side, fixed dental bridges do require teeth that may be healthy to be altered to accommodate the dental crowns. This may not always be ideal for patients depending on their needs.

Picking the Right Bridge for You

Given the options available, you might have an idea about your ideal bridge option. During the consultation process, we will be more than happy to cover all of these matters in much greater detail. We’ll answer your questions, address your concerns, and make sure you are confident in your dental care choices.

Contact Sharon B. Mateja, DDS

For more information about treating tooth loss and helping you have a healthy and beautiful smile, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry practice. We can discuss your treatment options in much greater detail. You can schedule a consultation by calling (909) 989-5959.