Dental bridges are one of the most widely utilized means of replacing one or more missing teeth. Of course, not all dental bridges accomplish this task in the same way. If you would like to improve your understanding of this versatile cosmetic dentistry technique, read on. This article will contrast implanted and removable dental bridges:
Implanted
As its name would imply, an implanted dental bridge capitalizes on the structural benefits of dental implants. Where only a single tooth is missing, a dental implant itself can be used. Yet when multiple teeth require replacement, using individual dental implants for each one is simply too expensive for many people.
Implanted bridges offer a wonderful compromise. Here, a pair of implants are used as anchor points for a bridge that spans the portion of missing teeth. The bridge itself consists of a manufactured set of false crowns that have been joined together in a single unit. An implanted bridge may fall into one of two categories: fixed or implant-supported fixed.
Fixed dental bridges are used in scenarios where multiple teeth are missing, yet the jaw bone itself has not suffered any degradation or serious changes in shape. Implant-supported fixed bridges, on the other hand, are utilized in cases where the tooth loss is accompanied by bone loss. Here the bridge does double duty in making up for bone loss, by restoring the contours of such facial features as lips and cheeks.
Removable
All forms of implant based bridges are characterized by the fact that two or more dental implants must be permanently installed in the bones of the jaw. In certain cases, this may not be physically possible—for instance, if the patient lacks the requisite bone support. Implanted bridges may also not be financially viable for many patients.
Fortunately, removable bridges offer an effective and versatile alternative. As you can probably glean from their name, removable bridges differ from implanted bridges in that they are not permanently installed in your mouth. Instead of using implants as attachment points, a removable bridge uses healthy existing teeth as anchors.
This allows the removable bridge to easily be fitted into place. While in the mouth, the mounting hardware utilized with a removable bridge ensures that it will not work loose or change position. It is important to note, however, that removable bridges must be taken out and cleaned on a regular basis. In this regard, they are quite similar to dentures, with the added benefit of greater stability and aesthetic appearance.
Contact a dental office that can help you with porcelain dental veneers for more information and assistance.
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