Crowns and Bridges in Kingman, AZ
If you’re missing one or more teeth, don’t worry. There are several options for replacing them at High Desert Dental, and that includes dental bridges and crowns. There are four main types of bridges that might work for your missing teeth, giving you a smile that you can be proud of again.
Traditional Bridges
Traditional bridges are the most popular type of dental bridges out there. They consist of either one or more replacement teeth and are held in place with dental crowns. They are bonded to the teeth adjacent to the missing one(s). They are even strong enough to replace molars! The downside to traditional bridges is that your dentist at High Desert Dental will need to remove a small amount of enamel from your teeth to make room for the crowns and enamel does not grow back. Those teeth will always need crowns to protect them.
Cantilever Bridges
Cantilever bridges are very similar to traditional bridges. The difference is that the pontic is supported by dental crowns only one side of the missing tooth. So, if you only have teeth on one side, you can still get a cantilever bridge.
Maryland Bridges
Maryland bridges are much more conservative than traditional or cantilever options. They are made up of a pontic that’s kept in place with a porcelain or metal framework. The framework is cemented onto the backs of your adjacent teeth next to the tooth gap. The enamel will not need to be removed because there are no crowns. The downside to Maryland bridges is that they’re only as strong as your adjacent teeth. So, you’ll want to avoid using them in places that require a lot of force, like molars.
Implant-Supported Bridges
If you have more than one missing tooth, implant-supported bridges are always an option. One implant is used per missing tooth, and the series of implants will work together to hold the bridge in place. Two surgeries are required to finish this procedure: one surgery to place the implants, and another to place the bridge. Once the surgeries are complete, and you’ve had time to heal, these implants will look and function like natural teeth.