Tooth loss can affect the strength and function of the bite. Furthermore, if a tooth or set of teeth is lost from the front of the mouth, it has a major impact on the appearance of the smile, as well.
When a set of one to three front teeth is lost, dentists at Astoria Dental Group recommend a dental bridge for the front teeth. Dental bridges sit between the natural teeth to fill in areas of tooth loss. The type of dental bridge that is right for each of our Queens, NY, Long Island, NY, and NYC patients will depend on the degree and area of tooth loss. Here, we discuss dental bridges that can restore the beauty of the smile by replacing missing front teeth.
Traditional Dental Bridge
When it comes to bridges, a traditional dental bridge is the option we most often recommend to dental patients. A traditional dental bridge consists of three pieces: two dental crowns and a pontic piece between them.
Dental crowns act as the anchors that hold the dental bridge in place. They are placed on the two teeth immediately adjacent to the area of tooth loss. The pontic piece sits between the two dental crowns and consists of a single ceramic piece that can be designed to resemble up to three teeth. The shape, size, and color of the pontic piece are all customized so that it blends in seamlessly with the natural teeth.
A traditional dental bridge is strong, durable, and comfortable. Of the three types of dental bridges that may be considered for the front teeth, it offers the greatest degree of stability. Because of this, our dentists most often suggest that patients opt for a traditional dental bridge if more than one tooth has been lost.
Cantilever Bridge
A cantilever bridge is very similar to a traditional bridge. The primary difference is that a cantilever bridge is anchored down by only a single dental crown, instead of two. These bridges are usually used when there are not strong, healthy teeth on both sides of the dental gap. While this option is not always suitable, it can work for the front of the mouth, because these teeth tend to be exposed to less force than the molars at the back of the mouth.
Maryland Bridge
The final type of bridge that may be considered when front teeth are missing is a Maryland bridge. This type of bridge is bonded to the natural teeth without the extra support of dental crowns. Instead of attaching to the top of the teeth, a Maryland bridge is bonded to the back of the natural teeth that sit adjacent to the gap with a metal framework.
Maryland bridges are the simplest and the most affordable, but also the least durable. They are really only suitable if a patient has lost just a single tooth from the front of the mouth.
Contact Us
Individuals who have experienced tooth loss can work with the experienced dentists at Astoria Dental Group to rebuild their smile. To learn more about the dental bridges offered at our dental practice, send us a message at your earliest convenience or call us at (718) 215-0510.
